Editorial

ALL-STARS MEET SPECIAL NEEDS

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Children with disabilities who are participating in the new All-Star soccer team at Scott City are finding support, endurance, strength and independence while enjoying a sport that would be difficult to play with non-disabled children.

The program, which includes children from Scott City, Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Perryville and Southern Illinois, gives the disabled participants a chance to play with one another. Encouragement, a positive attitude and teamwork are the only skills needed.

Tom and Sonya Miller had been taking their son, Ryan, to St. Louis to practice with another special-needs soccer team, and Ryan wanted to start one closer to home. It proved a good idea: 25 children are participating.

The All-Star soccer team is an example of how therapy can be turned into fun. Look for more children to become involved as word of the program spreads.