Recognizing the floorball team of J. M. Hanks High School for qualifying for the 2022 Special Olympics Winter World Games.
The resolution highlights the pride and support that the El Paso community has for the Hanks UKnighted team. Notably, the teamwork displayed between special education and general education students underscores the value of inclusivity in sports. As they prepare for their competing journey in January 2022, the support from local residents has been vital, especially in raising funds to cover travel expenses for the athletes. This positive community involvement emphasizes the importance of collaboration and encouragement within educational and athletic contexts.
Senate Resolution No. 162 recognizes the unified floorball team of J. M. Hanks High School in El Paso for their remarkable achievement of qualifying for the 2022 Special Olympics Winter World Games. The team, known as the Hanks UKnighted, showcased outstanding performance, winning all their games in the qualifying round held in San Antonio in February 2020. This victory is particularly significant as it marks their first year of play, and they have earned the opportunity to represent the United States at the World Winter Games in Kazan, Russia, along with over 2,000 athletes from across the globe.
While the resolution serves as a commendation for the team's success, it brings attention to broader themes of representation and acknowledgment in sports, particularly in inclusive settings where students with and without disabilities can compete together. This recognition acts as a reminder of the importance of supporting all types of athletic endeavors, fostering an environment of acceptance and celebration of diversity among athletes.