Young athletes with disabilities across the region gathered in West Fargo to demonstrate their strength through competitive exercise at the Able Games.
Founded by former NFL player Connor McGovern, the annual athletic gathering focuses on showcasing the physical capabilities of special needs competitors through structured weightlifting and fitness movements. More than ten educational institutions from across North Dakota and neighboring communities, including participants from Fargo and Moorhead, traveled to compete in events such as chest presses, rowing, and pulldowns.
McGovern established the initiative after witnessing a Special Olympics weightlifting competition and noting the exceptional power demonstrated by the competitors. Organizers emphasize that the program aims to shift public perceptions regarding what participants can achieve through physical training.
“It’s always more than worth it, it pays back ten times fold what you put in and what you get out,” McGovern said. “To see the impact it has on the athletes, on the athletes families, some of the best stories that the kids are way into sports, is what they talk about around the dinner table.”
Co-Director Leslie Frie said that the current turnout marked the highest attendance figures recorded since the program launched, drawing strong support from regional schools, families, and local volunteers. Frie emphasized that the competitive floor fosters a distinct atmosphere of belonging and mutual encouragement.
“It gives me chills, there’s nothing like it,” said Leslie Frie, Co-Director of the Able Games. “The passion you see on the floor and inclusion, you feel it when you’re on the floor. It’s something you can’t describe, you see it you feel it.”
Jake Peters, a participant who has competed since the event’s founding, expressed enthusiasm for the atmosphere and credited his support network for encouraging his athletic involvement.
“I feel happy for my able games, I’m so proud, thank you so much to able games. I’m so proud of me,” said Jake Peters, participant.
