The Washington Commanders may not have reached the National Football League playoffs this year, but they are Special Olympics superstars in our book.
On Friday, December 16, 2022, just two days before playing the New York Giants in a crucial NFC East Division showdown, the Commanders were kind enough to invite five Special Olympics Virginia athletes who write a quarterly fitness and nutrition newsletter to their training facility in Ashburn, Virginia.
The trip was organized by offensive tackle Charles Leno, Jr., and his wife, Jennifer, who together created a non-profit organization called Beyond the Entertainer to give back to their community. Special Olympics Virginia is one of many groups to benefit from their endeavor, but the first to be treated to such a hands-on experience!
Not only did we get to watch some football practice, tour the facility, eat lunch with athletes and staff members, and meet star players – we also sat down one-on-one with the Lenos and several coaches, trainers and nutritionists for interviews. What we learned about getting and staying in shape helps all Special Olympics athletes – not just those who are Commanders fans!
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