|
The City of South Miami took time to recognize a group
of special children who have excelled in the world of sports and
academics.
Children participating in tee ball, gymnastics and
track and field were recognized by the city commission for being
outstanding athletes. The lawmakers applauded the young athletes for
their great effort at last Tuesday's commission meeting.
"These children will be the ball players and
athletes of their high schools and even their colleges," said Ana
Garcia, director of Parks and Recreation.
The tee ball team was undefeated last season under the
supervision of coach Hector Martinez. The team began play in October
and most of the youngsters started with little or no ball playing
skills.
"Some of these boys could not throw a ball or
hold a glove properly," said Martinez. "But, with a lot of
practice they excelled and were undefeated."
Martinez added that he hopes to implement a new
physical fitness program that will teach youngsters the fundamentals
-- push-ups, sit-ups and pull-ups.
"We make learning these concepts fun for the
children," he said. "We turn everything into a
contest."
Physical fitness is the foundation for exercise, said
Martinez, who came to South Florida from New York to work with
children. It helps youth with speed, agility, flexibility and upper
body strength, he said.
"In each of the sports we are trying to teach the
concept that physical fitness is important in all areas of life,"
said Garcia. "This program will combat the use of drugs and
smoking, and will replace it with a natural high. Exercise needs to be
number one."
The gymnastics team gave the commissioners a
demonstration of skill. The boys and girls on the team danced across
the floor and performed back flips. The young athletes have been
practicing for six weeks and hope to be ready for competition soon.
The last group recognized was South Miami's track and
field club. Team members entered the commission chambers wearing
medals from past victories around their necks. Recently, the team
raised money to purchase bags to carry their track clothes and shoes
for competition and practice and 30 of these athletes have qualified
to compete in North Carolina.
"Along with their great athletic abilities, these
children are maintaining a grade point average that exceeds the
requirement of schools," said Garcia. "Before they practice,
homework and chores are completed."
"These children are the future," said Mayor
Julio Robaina. "Without the parents' support, none of this would
be possible. South Miami has one more thing to be proud of."
|
