Smiles, cheers, and steady encouragement filled The Jungle on Friday, April 24, as students from across Central Virginia took the field—not as spectators, but as the center of attention in the third annual Tournament of Champions, an Olympic-style event celebrating athletes with special needs.

The event brought together students from across the region who receive adapted curriculum instruction, giving them the opportunity to compete in a wide range of athletic and recreational activities including basketball, soccer, track, cornhole, baseball, and more.

Organized with support from Louisa County Public Schools (LCPS) Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services Dr. Carla Alpern and LCPS Adapted Physical Education Teacher Spike Richards, the event has grown into a regional collaboration involving multiple school divisions. Participating counties included Charlottesville, Fluvanna, Greene, Goochland, and Nelson.

LCPS previously participated in a similar competition in Culpeper but launched its own version of the event in 2024, expanding opportunities for students to compete closer to home and in a familiar community setting.

The Tournament of Champions also drew a large group of student volunteers. Among them was Louisa County High School junior Blair Bono, who spoke about the importance of inclusion and visibility for students of all abilities.

“Sometimes they don’t get to participate, so instead of being excluded, they are the main event,” Bono told NBC29 during the event. “It’s just a great time. They’re so happy when they finish and they’re like, ‘Yay, we won,’ and I’m like, ‘Yes, you did.’” The event offered students the chance to compete alongside peers and teachers in front of their families and hundreds of spectators, creating an atmosphere centered on encouragement and celebration.

During the April 27 Louisa County Board of Supervisors meeting, Cuckoo District Supervisor Christopher C. McCotter and Green Springs District Supervisor Rachel Jones both noted their attendance at the event, reflecting on its community impact.

“This was a phenomenal day with multiple counties coming together. It’s kind of like a Special Olympics held for children with challenges,” Jones said, who has volunteered at the event since its inception in 2024. “It’s always fun to see the smiling, happy faces.”

Supervisor McCotter shared that at the conclusion of the event he was left with a sense of fulfillment.

“I think this shows what Louisans’ can do when working in unison at their best,” McCotter said. “It was a fulfilling day, and I encourage everyone who can hear this to sign up next year.”