Members of the Fighting Irish football team came together Sunday to have some fun with their fans with special needs.

Nearly 20 Special Olympics athletes hit the gridiron with their favorite football players. They had the chance to kick field goals, practice passing and running drills, then finish with a touchdown celebration of their own.

While most of the fun happened on the field, parents off the field say they couldn't be more grateful to see their kids get this opportunity.

"I can't thank the athletes enough for doing this. It melts my heart," said Kristi Baker-Ott from Special Olympics of Elkhart County, "It brings as much joy to me as it does to them."

After the fun on the field, Special Olympics athletes had a meet and great with the Notre Dame football players.