KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

A Kadena Special Olympic athlete celebrates with his athlete buddy after scoring a goal during the soccer skills challenge Nov. 5, 2016 during the Kadena Special Olympics, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The goal of the Kadena Special Olympics is to break down barriers and create an environment of understanding and acceptance. Since the first time we hosted these games in 2000, they have highlighted inspiring acts of kindness, courage and team spirit from the athletes, family members and volunteers across the island. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

A Kadena Special Olympic athlete competes in the Frisbee toss challenge Nov. 5, 2016 during the Kadena Special Olympics, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The KSO is sponsored by the 18th Wing and the Friends of Kadena Special Olympics in partnership with the Okinawa Prefectural Government, Okinawa City, Kadena Town, Chatan Town and all U.S. military services on island. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

Kadena Special Olympic athletes and their athlete buddies compete in the Frisbee toss challenge Nov. 5, 2016, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. Last year more than 2,300 volunteers assisted 1,460 athletes and nearly 600 artists in support of the competition, bowling tournament and art show. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

Col. Paul Oldham, 18th Mission Support Group commander, presents a Kadena Special Olympics streamer to the 18th Security Forces Squadron during the annual running of the torch Nov. 4, 2016, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. Roughly 1,000 American volunteers will be paired up with more than 500 local interpreters to support this year’s KSO athletes. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

Hiori Moramizato, a Kadena Special Olympic athlete, competes in the Frisbee toss challenge with other athletes looking on during the Kadena Special Olympics Nov. 5, 2016, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. KSO began in 2000 with approximately 400 athletes and 600 volunteers as an 18th Wing community goodwill initiative and has since grown to hold more than 1000 competing athletes strengthening U.S.-Okinawa relationships. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

Kadena Special Olympic athletes and their athlete buddies compete in the soccer skills challenge Nov. 5, 2016, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The KSO began in 2000 with approximately 400 athletes and 600 volunteers as an 18th Wing community goodwill initiative to strengthen U.S. - Okinawa relationships. After 17 years, the event has more than doubled in size and participation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

A Kadena Special Olympic athlete scores a goal during the soccer skills challenge Nov. 5, 2016 during the Kadena Special Olympics, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. Established by the 18th Wing commander in 2000, KSO is a sporting and entertainment event that provides an opportunity for all communities involved to stand together in support of people with special needs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

A Kadena Special Olympic athlete stands on the winner’s podium after taking third place in the Frisbee toss challenge Nov. 5, 2016 during the Kadena Special Olympics, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. This year marks the 17th annual KSO, a sporting event dedicated to enriching the lives of special-needs individuals while strengthening U.S.-Okinawa relationships. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

Kadena Special Olympic athletes and their athlete buddies compete in the badminton skills challenge Nov. 5, 2016, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. This event showcases a long-standing connection between our communities and thousands gather with the united goal of fostering friendships and building everlasting memories. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)

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KSO 2016 badminton, soccer skills, Frisbee toss

Published Nov. 5, 2016
By Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel
18th Wing Public Affairs

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- A Kadena Special Olympic athlete celebrates with his athlete buddy after scoring a goal during the soccer skills challenge Nov. 5, 2016 during the Kadena Special Olympics, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The goal of the Kadena Special Olympics is to break down barriers and create an environment of understanding and acceptance. Since the first time we hosted these games in 2000, they have highlighted inspiring acts of kindness, courage and team spirit from the athletes, family members and volunteers across the island. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel/released)