The newly-formed South Gilbert Scorpions Special Olympics golf team recently visited Parsons Xtreme Golf (PXG) Mesa where each experienced a personalized PXG golf club fitting.
Twelve team members received a custom crafted PXG driver and golf bag as part of their inaugural competitive schedule within the Four Peaks Delegation. The PXG fitting bays in Mesa were a flurry of activity where Scorpions athletes were only smiles and swings could be seen for about two hours as team parents watched proudly.
"We really appreciate the opportunity to round out our athletes’ introduction to the game of golf with this one-of-a-kind PXG fitting experience," said Greg Marcell, South Gilbert Scorpions Special Olympics team coach. "We believe that there is nothing better for our athletes than playing to the best of their ability, and anyone who plays golf regularly knows that the driver is a really important club!"
The South Gilbert Scorpions Olympics team competes year-round in five different sporting events, including swimming, track and field, basketball, cheer, and now golf. There are a total of 66 athletes on the roster with highly involved families. The team is run by volunteer coaches and staff.
A highlight of the gathering was when the team recited the Special Olympics Oath, including team athlete John Robert Marcell, "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." When asked about the experience, he added, "I loved getting fitted and working with James."
"Golf should be accessible to everyone that has a curiosity about it," said James Russo, PXG club fitting team leader. "We were honored to work with each of the South Gilbert Scorpions Special Olympics team athletes. Creating a driver designed to each unique swing boosts comfort with the game; we hope it makes for an even better first season."
Reflecting on the fitting event, Marcell continued, "We are already all the more prepared to nurture the confidence and the joy that will come from getting on the course."
The Special Olympics has been challenging conventional ideas about who can play sports since their start in 1968. Sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities creates continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness and demonstrate courage.
To learn more about how to support the South Gilbert Scorpions, follow them on Facebook or Instagram at @South Gilbert Scorpions and @south-gilbert-scorpions, respectively or by emailing them at southgilbertscorpions@gmail.
