SOMO News

This year’s My Cause My Cleats initiative brought together creativity, advocacy, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Special Olympics athletes. Partnering with Kansas City Chiefs player George Karlaftis, the program allowed athletes to express what Special Olympics Missouri means to them through art—and to see their designs come to life on George’s cleats.

For many, this experience was deeply personal and inspiring. Here’s what some of the athletes had to say about this unforgettable journey:

Nicole Noblet shared her surprise and pride at seeing her artwork on George’s cleats:

“It was cool to have our designs as athletes be included on a Chiefs player’s cleats. I had no idea when I was asked to draw what Special Olympics means to me that this is what my artwork would be used for. I was shocked. Seeing all of our designs together on George’s cleats was cool and shows what Special Olympics is all about.”

Patty Sutton reflected on the opportunity to brainstorm and sketch with George and his girlfriend, Kaia:

“It was amazing to get to do this. Meeting George and Kaia made it even more special. They were so supportive and really cared about the causes we’re passionate about.”

For Andy Bal, the experience was filled with memorable moments, but one stood out the most:

“On November 18th, I went to the Kansas City Chief’s stadium. I first went on a backstage tour around the stadium and also onto the field. Soon, I went to the locker room and met George, who is one of the Chief’s players. I even got to see the artwork I created on George’s shoe. All in all, seeing my drawing on George’s shoe was my favorite part.”

Piper Earhart expressed the excitement of meeting one of the Chiefs players, a moment she never expected:

“It’s been really cool. It’s a crazy experience. I wouldn’t have ever imagined I would’ve gotten to meet one of the Chiefs.”

The cleats, a vibrant tapestry of designs created by the athletes, carried messages of inclusion, empowerment, and the spirit of Special Olympics. For George Karlaftis, wearing these cleats was a way to amplify those messages on one of the biggest stages in sports.

Adding to the excitement, several athletes had the chance to share their experiences in a TV interview with KTVO, where they discussed their journey and what this opportunity meant to them. The athletes were thrilled to see how their artwork not only made it to George’s cleats but also how it resonated with viewers and fans. It was an opportunity to share their stories on a broader scale and showcase the power of inclusion in sports. You can watch that interview here!

This collaboration was more than just an art project; it was a celebration of the athletes’ talents and a testament to the power of partnerships. As Nicole put it, “Seeing all of our designs together on George’s cleats was cool and shows what Special Olympics is all about.”

The experience left a lasting impression on everyone involved, reminding us all of the incredible things that can happen when creativity meets advocacy.