Fairfax, Va. -- The Special Olympics Virginia Area 26 Volleyball Team can often be found in the stands at the Recreation Athletic Complex (RAC), cheering on the George Mason men's volleyball team. Recently, a group of Patriots returned the favor, joining the Area 26 athletes on their home court and volunteering at the Warhawks Team's practice at Van Dyck Park in Fairfax.

Special Olympics Virginia provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for people with intellectual disabilities, creating opportunities to develop skills, compete, and build connections within their communities.

"We had met some of the guys from the team throughout the course of our season, as they showed up to a good number of our matches in full force," said Patriots' senior opposite hitter Jackson Herbert. "They were always the loudest in the stands, and we really appreciate the support. So, when they wanted help with their practice, all our guys jumped at the opportunity. It meant a lot to us because of the support they give us, so we wanted to do what we could in return."

During the practice, the George Mason student-athletes coached the Warhawks Team, shared their volleyball knowledge, and spent quality time on the court with athletes who had spent much of the Patriots' season supporting them from the stands.

"A large part of our team culture and George Mason athletics as a whole is giving back to our community," said Herbert. "This opportunity was a perfect activity for us to combine our knowledge of volleyball and our desire to help in the community. It means a lot to our team to give our experience and knowledge to those that don't have the same access to it as us, so we were grateful to spend a beautiful day outside and help teach other driven athletes."

For the Patriots, volunteering with the Area 26 team provided a perfect opportunity to give back to the Northern Virginia community, whose support has been integral to making the RAC a formidable home-court environment in recent years. George Mason has posted a 38-6 home record at the RAC dating back to 2024.

The connection to George Mason made the day even more meaningful, as many of the Area 26 Special Olympics athletes were Patriots themselves.

"Many of our Special Olympics athletes are graduates of the GMU LIFE Program," said volunteer team coordinator Gretchen Ortega. "Having current GMU athletes come out to support them felt like Patriot Pride in action!"

George Mason men's volleyball is still months away from returning to the court for regular-season action at the RAC, but the Patriots continue to make an impact in the Northern Virginia community throughout the year.

"Although I am proud of my team for their athletic abilities, I am more proud of what they do off the court," said George Mason Head Coach Jay Hosack. "Being a part of the Special Olympics is a unique opportunity to be a part of something bigger than yourselves. I'm sure this won't be the last time they are there helping coach that team to greatness!"