Special Olympics participates in clinic with Grand Rapids Drive

Local Special Olympics athletes took to the court on Tuesday, Jan. 30, for some one-on-one time with members of the Grand Rapids Drive.

Perrigo Company, an Allegan-based provider of healthcare products, sponsored the event to provide an afternoon of fun for the athletes. The professional-level athletes held a clinic at Forest Hills Eastern High School and handed out instruction and advice to participants.

"At Perrigo, we are always looking for ways to support the West Michigan community that our employees call home and being able to bring Special Olympics Michigan into this year's efforts with the Grand Rapids Drive is a win for everyone involved," said Tom Farrington, executive vice president, chief information officer and president of the Perrigo Company Charitable Foundation.

According to Christopher Thomas, Special Olympics coordinator for Forest Hills Public Schools, the event was specifically for Special Olympics athletes in area 11, which includes Kent and Barry counties.

"If it wasn't for them (Grand Rapids Drive) and their willingness, it just wouldn't happen," said Thomas.

The Special Olympics athletes were given commemorative T-shirts for the clinic in addition to learning from the Drive players and participating in an autograph session.

"We are so thankful for the efforts of Perrigo and the Grand Rapids Drive for allowing all of these athletes to have a great day playing and learning from their new professional friends," said Chris Thomas, of Special Olympics Michigan. "This is a great way to help kick off our 50th anniversary year."