Brandon Olson participates in the powerlifting competition during the 2019 western fall sectional special olympics held at Slippery Rock University.

SLIPPERY ROCK — About 200 Slippery Rock University volunteers hosted more than 400 Western Pennsylvania Special Olympics athletes Sunday in the Special Olympics Pennsylvania Western Fall Sectional.

“We've had this here for probably close to 25 years,” said Karen Perry, director of campus recreation.

Perry herself has helped host Special Olympics at SRU for the last 20 years.

While there weren't as many volunteers this year as in past years — SRU typically pulls in upward of 300 volunteers — around 250 participated in the opening ceremonies.

“Almost all of them are students,” Perry said. “It's a good community builder.”

SRU senior Savannah Sedlack is majoring in recreational therapy. She's been an SRU Special Olympics volunteer for the last four years.

“I love it,” Sedlack said. “It's something to look forward to.”

“It's a great event,” said Jessica Hall-Wirth, assistant professor of special education. “It's huge.”

As a special-education teacher, Hall-Wirth believes Special Olympics raises awareness for disabled needs. She said it also works toward public understanding.

“(At) an event like this, you definitely see inclusion,” Hall-Wirth said.

This is an excerpt of an article appearing in our Sports section in Monday's Butler Eagle. To read the full story and learn more about the games, pick up today's paper or subscribe online.