The Kootenays manager for Special Olympics BC says it’s fantastic Grand Forks has approved another year of bocce practice in Gyro Park.
Melainie Hatt says the number of Grand Forks athletes has rebounded since the pandemic.
“Over the past year the participation has grown immensely and our athlete numbers have really increased. So the numbers are just amazing,” Hatt said.
“It’s really great to see everyone’s coming back out and they’re ready to get back into sport.”
Some of the sports locally include bowling, curling, floor hockey, golf and swimming.
Hatt said they are hoping to offer soccer and softball too.
There are approximately 30 athletes in the Grand Forks area.
Special Olympics accepts young people with intellectual disabilities, defined as someone with an IQ of 76 prior to turning 18. But Hatt says they never turn people away if they don’t fit the criteria exactly.
“It gives individuals a chance to shine. It gives individuals a chance to participate in sport in an avenue that is safe and that they feel accepted and it gives families a chance to come and see their son or daughter excel in something that they never ever thought they would,” Hatt said.
The Grand Forks local has been around since 1989 “which is amazing,” she said.
The City of Trail will host the regional qualifier for bocce on June 8, where athletes qualify for the provincial games.
Hatt says they are always looking for volunteers and new athletes to come out and try a sport. You can find more information on how to volunteer and become an athlete on their website.
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