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Jacksonville teen heads to Special Olympics — but not just for his talents on the field

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — This weekend, Special Olympics athletes from across Florida will head to Disney to compete in the state Fall Classic.

Wyatt Burditt was selected to attend for the second year in a row for his talents in softball.

"Avocado power… that means running fast," Wyatt told us.

That's his catch phrase, and when you say those words, he takes off.

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Wyatt has made significant strides over the last several years in the Special Olympics program—both as an athlete and a person.

"His communication skills have really come to the forefront," Cliff Burditt, Wyatt's father, said. "[As well as] his socialization skills with his peers, being involved being a leader."

Despite his autism diagnosis, he always gives his best effort and always looks on the bright side.

"He brings a lot of positive energy," his coach, John Berger, said. "He's always kind of a bright light at practice."

Berger said Wyatt does everything from help pick up balls to check in on teammates who are sick. That's one of the many reasons he was chosen to represent Jacksonville in the Fall Classic. He is one of three people chosen out of 1,700 Special Olympic athletes in Duval County selected for the competition.

"I tell him all the time I'm just so proud of him," Burditt said.

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The program is meant to help kids and adults with intellectual disabilities learn life skills, all while making them feel just like every other athlete.

"It's really something for everyone to jump in," Burditt said.

The organization is always looking for volunteers, coaches and anyone looking to get involved. You can volunteer as much or as little time as you want.