Quarterback Joe Flacco may not be from Maryland but the veteran quarterback is making an impact in the lives of athletes from the Maryland Special Olympics.
On Saturday, Flacco along with teammate Dennis Pitta held their annual Charity Casino Night in partnership with Al Packer Ford of White Marsh to help raise funds for the special olympics initiative.
The Maryland Special Olympics , is an organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for persons eight years of age and older with intellectual disabilities.
The SOMD’s mission to provide continuing opportunities for those who suffer from intellectual disabilities is something Flacco holds near and dear to his heart.
“I’ve been connected to this dealership for a long time and Jerry and they have great events,” said Flacco when asked about his involvent in the casino charity night. “It’s always great to come out and see the athletes that they have here and and always see the excitement they have.”
“It’s a nice community event. You see a ton of people from around the city and little towns from around here.”
Tight end Dennis Pitta echoed Flacco’s sentiments on why it’s so important to help the Special Olympics of Maryland athletes.
“It’s a lot of fun, it’s a great cause,” Pitta said. “I’m just happy to be a part of it.” said Pitta.
The duo posed for pictures and interacted with several of the special olympics athletes that were on hand as well.
The fundraising event featured all the bright lights and big winnings that made the over 400 patrons in attendance think they were along the Vegas Strip, all for a wonderful cause.
“It’s just getting better and better. More people are coming out and supporting it and the athletes,” said Flacco. “It’s always great to see. I think the athletes have something contagious about them. It just fills you up with energy and excitement. Their attitudes and everything are great.”
Flacco, who has been a long time supporter Special Olympics Maryland (SOMD) annually participates in various events held by the organization including the Polar Bear Plunge.
While it’s unknown if the Flacco-Pitta connection will be on the field together this fall, they will always be a part of the Special Olympics of Maryland and it’s athletes.
Follow me on Twitter @sportguyRSR and our @PlayerPositive initiative.Â
