Senior and Special Olympian Brendan Elkins is no stranger to most people within the high school. Walking down the hallway, Elkins greets numerous students and faculty by name, high-fiving them as he goes.

One of Elkins peers notices the attitude that Elkins displays every day. Senior Kelsey Cunningham is a friend of Brendan’s from middle school. They have been friends since the 8th grade when Brendan first introduced himself to Kelsey.

“Brendan is the coolest and nicest person you will ever meet” said Cunningham.

Helping Elkins portray his is one of the key players in Special Olympics, who has been a part of the program since his sophomore year.

Special Olympics gives Brendan something to look forward to after school.

“Special Olympics has been really great and I always look forward to seeing my friends after school and at practice,” said Elkins.

He has been in the Special Olympics program since spring of his sophomore year.

Elkins being in Special Olympics for two years has given him the opportunity to meet a lot of teammates and volunteers. Elkins, his teammates, and the volunteers have gradually formed a bond with one another that connects them.

“I am really thankful for all of the volunteers who come to help and support me at practices and tournaments. I am friends with all of them,” said Elkins.

Cara Hornbeck, the coach of Elkin’s basketball team notices the dedication and his character that he brings to the program.

“Brendan is always positive and is always giving high fives and side hugs to people. He is always encouraging to the other team and his own. Brendan has gained school spirit because he has a feeling that he contributes something to the school while being on Special Olympics,” said Hornbeck.

Elkins plays two sports for the program, which are basketball and track. To Elkins, his favorite part about the sporting events are the people that are involved.

“I like going to the basketball tournaments to cheer people on. The best thing that ever happened is at a tournament this weekend (January 10) my team got first against two other teams,” said Elkins.

There is a special place in Brendan’s heart for Special Olympics and everyone involved. “My favorite thing about Special Olympics is definitely going to encourage people and show good sportsmanship.”