Olympians and Paralympians Surprise Students at South Jordan Elementary Field Day

On June 3, 2026, the students of South Jordan Elementary School in South Jordan were treated to an unforgettable Field Day experience as a group of Olympians and Paralympians made a surprise appearance. Among the athletes were Paralympic snowboarder Zach Miller and Olympic snowboarder Faye Gulini Thelen, who enthusiastically participated in tug-of-war games alongside the sixth graders.

Miller, who has previously competed at the Winter Games, encouraged the students to step outside their comfort zones. "I want them to experience the camaraderie that comes with competition," he declared while rallying the young competitors. The two-time world champion, born with cerebral palsy, reminisced about his own school days, saying, "Field day was my favorite day in school, 100%." He emphasized the importance of having fun and showing that competition is enjoyable, regardless of the outcome.

Fraser Bullock, president and executive chair of the organizing committee for the upcoming 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, expressed the committee's commitment to inspiring future generations. "This is just the beginning. You’ll see much more of this around the state," he stated, highlighting plans for a K-12 program set to launch in Utah schools this fall.

As the day progressed, students eagerly lined up to collect autographs from the visiting athletes. Sixth grader Lincoln Seely shared his excitement, noting that meeting these accomplished individuals was meaningful, as they embody the joy of pursuing one's passions. Olympic bobsledder Kaysha Love took time to engage with the students, sharing her own journey and encouraging them to follow their dreams. "Don’t ever give up," she urged the young athletes.

The day was filled with fun activities, including inflatable obstacle courses and races, fostering a sense of community and inspiration among the students. The presence of these elite athletes provided a unique opportunity for the children to connect with their sporting heroes, leaving a lasting impression on their aspirations.