Blattel receives an extra-special honor

Lucas Blattel of Chaffee was the recipient of Missouri's 2004 Athlete of the Year.

Lucas Blattel's athletic resume alone is impressive. He's a sportsman for all seasons, competing in basketball, track and field, softball, soccer and bowling.

"He's an outstanding athlete," said Penny Williams of Cape Girardeau's Parks and Recreation Department.

But Blattel also leaves an impression on fellow athletes and those who have seen him play because of the attitude he carries on and off the field.

"He's definitely a team player," Williams said, "and he's someone you can count on to help take care of others. He's an outstanding person and athlete."

The 22-year-old Chaffee resident was recognized for his athleticism and attitude Jan. 15, when Special Olympics Missouri named Blattel its Athlete of the Year for 2004. As one of nine nominees from region's throughout Missouri, Blattel was surprised with his statewide recognition, which came during a banquet at Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach, Mo.

"It felt pretty good," Blattel said. "I was proud."

His mother, Wanda Blattel, a volunteer basketball coach with Special Olympics, shared in that feeling.

"He's always worked really hard at whatever he does," she said. "He watches out for the little guys on the team and helps out."

Williams, the coordinator for Special Olympics activities in Southeast Missouri, wrote the nominating information about Blattel.

"Blattel is a talented athlete," Wiliams wrote, "but his character and actions make him a true leader in the organization. ... He is a friend to all he meets and is a true representative of the spirit of Special OIympics."

Blattel, who works for his father, Herb Blattel Jr., with Watertite Seamless Gutter, also represents Special Olympics as a Global Messenger. In that role, he serves as a spokesman for Special Olympics in presentations to community groups.

Blattel, who attended Delta schools, is completing his third year as a Special Olympics athlete.

"I had been playing sports all through school," he said.

He plays shortstop in softball, runs the sprints and competes in shot put in track and carries a bowling average of 120.

"I just like to have fun and help the rest of the people do well," Blattel said. "I try to help everyone out, and if they get down, I try to help them get better."

Special Olympics Missouri offers a year-round program of athletic competition for children and adults with mental disabilities. The organization serves 14,178 athletes in Missouri competing in 19 sports.

Another local party was honored at the annual Night of Inspirational Stars Awards Banquet. Mississippi River Radio of Cape Girardeau was named the Media Supporter of the Year. Faune Riggin of Mississippi River Radio was singled out for her contributions as the "voice of Special Olympics" in the area. She coordinates ceremonies and serves as an announcer at several events.