OSU kinesiology students support Special Olympics athletes at Fall State Games

On Nov. 22, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology Andy Pitchford and Postdoctoral Scholar Franzi Loetzner led a group of more than 20 Oregon State students in volunteering with the Healthy Athletes initiative for Special Olympics Oregon.

Students provided health screenings and education to athletes participating in the Fall State Games soccer competition at Providence Park in Portland — home of the Timbers and Thorns.

Health promotion activities addressed bone density, blood pressure, body composition and healthy habits including physical activity, nutrition, hydration, handwashing, sun safety and tobacco prevention.

This effort provided much-needed services to Special Olympics athletes across the state while offering students a meaningful, hands-on learning experience.

Another opportunity to volunteer with Andy Pitchford and the Healthy Athletes program is coming in July when the Summer State Games return to Corvallis.