Fall is go-time for Special Olympics

All programs and events in the community are led by volunteers

Basketball at Special Olympics Ontario Spring Games from SOO Facebook

NEWS RELEASE
SPECIAL OLYMPICS ONTARIO
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Special Olympics Barrie had a successful summer season, including a trip to National Summer Games in Antigonish, Nova Scotia for eleven local athletes. Athletes and volunteers are now gearing up for the fall start of winter and spring sport programs.

Of course, with Barrie being in a major snow belt, the alpine and Nordic ski and snowshoe teams are looking forward to the upcoming season, especially knowing that they will be represented by a combined 24 athletes at the Provincial Winter Games in Sault Ste. Marie.

Five-pin bowling has had some growth, and will be offering a second weekly session this year. Ten-pin bowling continues to attract keen athletes.

The swim program does have an expectation that athletes have some experience in the sport, and offers back-to-back sessions for beginners through advanced swimmers.

For those who enjoy co-ed team sports, Barrie has a strong tradition of curling, and the club looks forward to another great season of practice and competition. Floor hockey – in the Special Olympics format of ringette on a gym floor – continues to build its program. Basketball maintains popularity and has two sessions per week: one, a development squad, and the other is competitive.

All programs and events in the community are led by volunteers. While each of the sport clubs would welcome new coaching volunteers to help out, the basketball program is in particular need of coaches for both of its programs. Coaches commit to weekly training sessions – Tuesday evenings for competitive play, Sundays for the development squad – and two or three one-day weekend competitions throughout the season.

Members will be gathering for the annual fall registration day on Sunday, Sept. 9. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lions Gate hall on Blake Street. New athletes and volunteers are welcome to attend to find out more about getting involved.

For more information, please contact [email protected] or [email protected], or call 1-888-333-5515 ext. 276.

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