The Story Behind "The Best Smile"

By Steve Helm

Gary Schottle, father of SOTX athlete and Global Messenger Derek “Tank” Schottle, was selected as the winner of this week’s Best Shot photo contest for the image (pictured right) submitted for “Best Smile”. As you can imagine, the buzz has been all about that smile! Thanks to Gary and the Arc of Fort Bend County, we have been able to learn more about athlete Chance Geary, who is the featured athlete showing us those pearly whites, so we wanted to share: 

"Chance Geary is a one-man welcome committee,” said Margo Pasko from the Arc of Fort Bend County. “He always has a smile and greeting for everyone. This picture truly captures his joyful personality!” 

“When I started volunteering in 2001, on my very first trip with Lamar CISD, Chase roomed with me at the hotel so you could say he 'indoctrinated' me into Special Olympics,” Schottle said. “From what I know of him, he is always happy and smiling. He loves the Opening Ceremony and the dances, as he loves to dance. He also likes being around the beauty queens that usually show up at the events" 

Gary participates in Aquatics and Basketball with the Arc of Fort Bend. He comes from a family that has always strongly supported Special Olympics. 

His mom, Becky, has coached the Arc of Fort Bend aquatics program for at least eight years. His dad has volunteered for many years, chaperoning, driving and toting equipment. His sister not only volunteers, but several years ago, started "Olympic Town", a miniature athlete village for Lamar CISD's annual invitational track meet, a tradition that continues to this day.