Pictured at State Fall Classic Bowling Competition representing the Northeast Bowlers are Left to right: Christian Gallagher (Yuma athlete), Caleb Moormeier (Akron athlete), Maggie Sawyer (Lone Star athlete), Kyla Pachner (Akron partner), Austin Durbin (Holyoke athlete), and Frannie Sawyer (Lone Star athlete). (Courtesy photo)

Special Olympics Colorado hosted the State Fall Classic Bowling Competition this past Saturday, Nov. 20 at the AMF Belleview Lanes in Englewood, Colorado.  The Northeast Bowlers (composed of "Athletes" and "Partners" through Northeast Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) Unified Champion Schools (UCS) Special Olympics bowling program was represented by five Athletes and one Partner at State.

Different sessions accommodated the approximately 900 bowlers from across the state for the State competition; Northeast Bowlers were part of the 11:30 a.m. wave.

All Northeast Bowlers competed in unique Doubles divisions. Two teams from the Northeast brought home Gold medals and one team received Silver in their respective divisions. Representing the Northeast Bowlers were: Coach John Durbin, Athletes: Austin Durbin (Holyoke), Frannie Sawyer (Lone Star), Christian Gallagher (Yuma), Caleb Moormeier (Akron), Maggie Sawyer (Lone Star), Partner Kyla Pachner (Akron), and Coach Nikki Hettinger. Athlete Abraham Diaz, and Partners: Thomas Diaz and Levi Dille were unable to attend.

Everyone involved - Athletes, Partners, Coaches, family members, and friends -- enjoyed the day and the camaraderie of competition and inclusion. Special thanks to the individuals who have supported the Northeast Bowlers throughout this fun bowling season.

The UCS Special Olympics basketball season begins in December. UCS Special Olympics allows youth with intellectual disabilities ("Athletes") to partner with peers without disabilities ("Partners") through year-round sports and social inclusion of all individuals.  Each athlete is welcome to participate in just one or multiple sports. Teams are co-ed.

If you are interested in participating as an Athlete, Partner, Coach, or Volunteer, please contact Michelle Patterson - NE BOCES Director of Special Education - by calling 1-970-521-2771ext 1233.