Special Olympics Team USA athletes and coaches meet for the first time before getting down to some serious practice In preparation for the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games, teammates are gathering in every country around the world to meet, bond and train, before arriving in Shanghai, China, to compete from 2-11 October, in the largest global sporting event to take place in 2007. The training camp for Special Olympics Team USA was held from 12-16 July. Vanderbilt University, in Nashville, Tennessee, welcomed more than 500 Special Olympics Team USA athletes and 150 coaches to its campus for a weeklong training camp. It was the first time that coaches and athletes had thet change to meet each other. After initial introductions, they really got to know one another during daily practices and team building activities that helped establish friendships and unite them as a team. In addition to a demanding practice schedule, there wass time set aside for plenty of fun. On 12 July, the evening of their arrival to Nashville, Special Olympics Team USA athletes enjoyed an Asian-themed dinner and a concert by Special Olympics Team USA spokesperson and country singing sensation JoDee Messina, who wished the athletes luck during their training for World Games. Throughout the week, athletes also enjoyed spending one evening at the Triple AAA league Nashville Sounds baseball game for a “Special Olympics Night,” hosting a variety of small events throughout the game. The Special Olympics Team USA delegation also took in some Chinese culture and a fashion show featuring athlete models showing off the competition and casual wear the delegation will be seen wearing in China during the Games. In addition, Olympic speed skater Scott Hamilton made guest appearances showing his support. For a day-by-day recap, photos and daily blogs, you can follow Special Olympics Team USA activities on www.specialolympicsteamusa.org.