Elaine Loft, Staff Writer
For over 20 years, Derryfield students have been volunteering at the Special Olympics of New Hampshire State Winter Games. This year, 37 Derryfield students, accompanied by six faculty and staff members, spent three days setting courses, cheering on athletes, and assisting with indoor art projects when the weather turned rainy on the final morning.
Nearly 200 athletes from across New Hampshire gathered at Waterville Valley for this annual three-day competition, which ran from March 3 to March 5, and featured alpine skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The schedule took off in earnest on Monday, with time-trials, the 3K races and the opening ceremony. All the remaining competitions were staged on Tuesday, with events running from 9:30 AM until 4:15 PM. After a day and a half of strenuous activity, Tuesday evening brought the much anticipated banquet dinner, and an “Alice in Wonderland” themed dance. Warming temperatures and rain forced everyone inside on Wednesday, but there was still plenty to do. The Derryfield volunteers spent the morning joining the participants at board games and cornhole, as well as helping the athletes construct “mad hatter” crowns, “bedazzle” water bottles, braid friendship bracelets, and create yarn gnomes.
Upon their return from Waterville Valley, two of the student volunteers offered their reflections.
“One of my favorite aspects of the Special Olympics culture is the determination and resilience of everyone involved, and this year stood out because of the athletes’ tenacity and the volunteers’ dedication to running the program smoothly. The energy never wavered despite unexpected weather changes that forced event schedules to shift, leaving athletes with less time to warm up, and volunteers with limited time to prepare. Everyone still showed up early, ready to give their best, and the athletes delivered outstanding performances despite the challenges. I’ve met incredible families and leaders who have taught me so much. One leader, in particular, encouraged me to stand firm in my beliefs and pursue what’s right. This philosophy embodies the essence of Special Olympics; everyone involved is a passionate change-maker determined to succeed.” Camille Garcia ‘26
“It was joyful for me to watch the athletes compete their hardest, and know that we had made a significant difference in the way the event was run. Helping out with the games and seeing the athletes enjoy themselves was very rewarding. I think this event had a significant impact on all the volunteers from Derryfield.” Mitch Grunbeck ‘26
