VIP Games Provide Disabled Young Athletes With 'Rewarding Experiences'

Daneece Fraizer's son Ian is a sophomore at and attends an independent living skills program. Ian lives every day of his life with cerebral palsy and like many teenagers, Ian sought a place where he could find belonging. 

In 2011 Ian's P.E. coach Cathy Wood introduced the Fraizers to her husband Bob who helps coach BVDC, a joint athletic program for developmentally disabled students sponsored by Bella Vista and . The family signed up Ian and a week later the teen was practicing. Ian, now in his second season of track, enjoys every aspect of being a part of BVDC, Fraizer said.

On Saturday, April 21 California State University, Sacramento hosted a special track meet, the Very Inspirational People Games (or VIP), and the Fraizers were to cheer on Ian as he participated in a number of track and field events, including the long jump and 4x100 meter relay.

Since 2002 VIP has provided developmentally disabled youths with athletic opportunities through donations, charities and volunteerism.

"The event was great," Fraizer said.

There were about 10 teams competing, Fraizer said. All of them local area and Foothills teams. Fraizer said the 4x100 Meter relay was cancelled because the heat became an issue.

The next meet will be an official Special Olympics event and will be held at Cordova High School on Saturday May 19.