By Teri MossBlack Cat ProudFourteen students from the Fredericktown Special Olympics team competed in the Unified Cross Country Meet held at Mineral Area College campus. The Fredericktown team has grown from 8 athletes to 15 with the number of “athlete buddies” more than doubling from 18 to 45. Their support demonstrates the heart of the Fredericktown community where inclusion, encouragement and love shine brightly. “The Fredericktown Special Olympics program would like to express their deep gratitude to sponsors who have helped make these opportunities possible,” said a grateful Coach Moss. “Their generosity ensures that every athlete has the chance to compete, grow and thrive.”“Each meet for the Fredericktown Special Olympics team is a reminder of the power of sports to unite people of all abilities, creating lasting memories and friendships that strengthen the entire community.”