Inclusion is at the heart of the Special Olympics mission; so of course, it only makes sense that every successful fundraising event embraces the presence and participation of Special Olympics athletes. This was certainly the case at the 22^nd Annual Robins Kaplan Charity Golf Tournament, where participants from across the state got to witness firsthand the benefits and joy Special Olympics programming brings to athletes.

“Our guests, our lawyers, our supporters, our staff really get to feel here how important Special Olympics is,” said Anthony (Tony) Froio, Managing Partner and Chair of Executive Board at Robins Kaplan, LLP. “When you hear from an athlete, you can’t get a better annunciation of how it feels, their accomplishments, hearing their stories, it’s the inspiration that keeps this tournament going. It’s the reason why my firm steps up to support Special Olympics.”

As the sun shined down on the perfectly manicured greens of the Myopia Hunt Club, the excitement in the air was palpable. Golfers eagerly anticipated the chance to support Special Olympics Massachusetts while playing at one of the most beautiful golf courses. This unique experience fosters connections, builds understanding, and highlights the incredible talent and passion of Special Olympics athletes. Throughout the day, golfers navigated the course and engaged in friendly competition; but when they arrived at hole 16, there was something special in store.

Colin Davidson, a Special Olympics MA athlete with the Shrewsbury local program spent his day camped out at the 16th hole; where different foursomes could use his drive instead of their own for a donation. After a series of drives that danced left and right, Colin’s final drive of the day landed just eight feet from the pin, showcasing his skill and resolve.

“When I saw Colin swing, it was such a beautiful swing it was so sweet. And then it ended up on the green,” said tournament participant and player in the final foursome, Stephen Moroz. For nearly 10 years, Stephen has participated in the Robins Kaplan Tournament and commented on the confidence and commitment Special Olympics athletes always bring to the course. “You have to believe in the swing, and he did. I don’t think any of us in our foursome committed to the hole, but Colin did, and it was a perfect swing,” said Stephen.

With none of this last foursome getting closer to the pin than Colin, the group opted to use his ball and invited him to finish out the hole with them. One by one, the players in that final group tried their hand at sinking the putt, but each ball slipped just past the hole. When it was Colin’s turn, everyone watched from the sidelines waiting to see what would happen.

“I don’t like to talk about confidence, but I think if I make this it will go right to the confidence bin,” said Colin before taking the shot.

With a perfect stroke, the ball rolled smoothly into the hole for a birdie. And while it’s usually supposed to be quiet on the course, the crowd couldn’t help but cheer for Colin and the amazing birdie he made for the last group of the day.

"You are the best!" Exclaimed one of the foursome participants.

“Everyone was watching and it was so much fun. What a way to end the day,” said Stephen.

It was a testament to the spirit of inclusion that defines Special Olympics. Tournament participants not only raised vital funds for Special Olympics programming; but also experienced firsthand the joy and inspiration that comes from playing alongside an athlete who embodies perseverance and passion.

“Colin will never forget that experience. The foursome will never forget that experience,” said Tony. “And it just goes to show that as humans, if we love, trust, and respect each other and give everyone the opportunity, especially those underprivileged, look at what it does. Not only for the Special Olympics athlete, but for everybody.”

The Robins Kaplan Golf Tournament isn’t just a fundraising event; it’s a reminder of the impact of inclusion, leaving participants with memories and connections that will last far beyond the final putt.

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