Special Olympics

This year, Extreme Ice Center was once again the host site for Special Olympics competitions on the state level (Jan. 9-10, 2009) and the local level (Jan 29, 2009).

This was exciting news particularly for two Special Olympic skaters, Caitlyn Belk and David Wilches, who will also be participating in the Special Olympic World Winter Games in Boise, Idaho on February 6-13, 2009. They are coached by Tappie Dellinger & Sonya Garlick. Tappie will accompany the skaters to the World Winter Games. This will be Tappie’s 4th trip to Special Olympics World Games. She previously attended games in Reno (1989), Alaska (2001), and Japan (2005).

Tappie has a 25 year history of involvement with Special Olympics NC including beginning the Mecklenburg County program and expanding that program to include Union County participants. She officiates for the Southeast Special Olympic games and currently heads the Special Olympic NC Sports Development Team as well as serving as the Special Olympics NC Ice Skating Competition Director (includes figure skating and speed skating). Speed skating? YES! Tappie also holds a level 1 certification in speed skating.

Coach Tappie Dellinger		Coach Sonya Garlick

If you are interested in becoming involved in Special Olympics by volunteering or donating money to the World Games athletes, please contact Tappie at tappieskat@aol.com or at Extreme Ice Center.