Special Olympics, more than a competition

Emily Ruff wakes up, warms up, clears her mind, listens to Disney music and prepares for her day ahead just like she has for the last 17 years she has participated in Special Olympics Montana (SOMT). Headquartered in Great Falls, SOMT provides support for people with intellectual disabilities to train and compete in over 100 programs. 

SOMT was founded in 1970, marking this year as its 52nd year operating in the state. According to SOMT, there are currently over 2,000 athletes that participate ranging from 8 to 86 years old.

Ruff is one of the many athletes participating in these programs. When asked about her favorite events, she replied with many different programs SOMT has offered: “Horseback riding, basketball, bowling, floor hockey, track & field, swimming and skiing.” These events are hosted like the Olympics with opening and closing ceremonies. On Friday, Feb. 4, Ruff participated in bowling, where she scored a 93, 92 and 101, earning a silver medal. After the event, she enjoyed a game with a friend. To Ruff, this is more than just a competition. “For me, it’s not about the competition, it’s about doing your best no matter if you win or you lose. You’re there just to have a great time around friends, coaches and teammates.” Getting a medal, Ruff said, was only a bonus.

To many, Ruff is an inspiration. When asked if she had anything she would share with those who look up to her she replied modestly, “Just keep your head up, stay focused and determined,” Ruff said. “It doesn’t matter if you win or lose your sport. With the knowledge you have, just cheer on your friends and your teammates.”

Alean Skinner attended MSU in 2005, where she got re-certified in special education, and is now a Special Olympics coach and speech coach. Skinner is one of the coaches who helps bring SOMT’s mission to life. Working with Ruff since 2014-15, Skinner first started coaching the Bozeman Flames, one of the Special Olympics teams from the Big Sky Region. Ruff is a part of the Bozeman Bears.

“(Special Olympics) means a lot to me. I have great lifetime lasting friends and we are a huge great big family. It’s a place where you can be who you are so there is no judgment in this family, it is just who we are.”

Skinner described how it feels to watch the growth of the people she has coached. “I feel excited for them. Sometimes I’m right there on the sidelines running their race with them,” Skinner said. “It’s rewarding to know they are doing the best they can.”

To both Ruff and Skinner, the Special Olympics mean different things. Whether connecting with friends or coaches, it allows everyone to be the best version of themselves. “It’s my passion. Just being with these individuals just brightens my day, like I said they are my family,” Skinner said.

To explore all the opportunities the Special Olympics program offers and see the talent of the athletes, visit the SOMT website, https://www.somt.org/.