Successful special Olympian bowlers after spare helping hands

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Marlborough’s Ten Pin Bowling Special Olympics team are searching for new coaches to help maintain momentum after December’s medal-winning National Games performances.

Special Olympics Marlborough need bowlers to share some of their Saturday mornings and knowledge with their athletes. And volunteers don’t need to experts, but willing to lend a hand and cover the basics, says Marlborough Special Olympics Co-Ordinator Cindy Adams-Vining.

“We don’t need expert bowlers to dedicate every Saturday morning – we just need people willing to lend some of their time, teach basic techniques and match the enthusiasm our athletes bring to the lanes.”

Every Saturday, about 25 bowlers gather at the Simcox Indoor Stadium to practice and socialise. The team spirit is clear, says bowling coach Steve Tankard.

“We have 25 incredibly enthusiastic bowlers every Saturday that love the sport and socialising, and with a great support crew behind our athletes”.

“Our athletes are great fun to work with and there’s an incredible sense of community and sup- port around the team”.

“It’s just so great to get involved with the Marlborough special needs community and see how much fun they have here every week.

“It’s an honour and a privilege to help out and see them interacting and having fun”, Steve says.

Athletes arriving at the Simcox Indoor Sports Stadium on Saturday all had smiles on their faces and were warmly greeted by their teammates.

“There’s some super bowlers here – the team earned a silver medal, 2 bronzes and four 4th place ribbons just in bowling”, Steve says.

“We really punched above our weight across all the sports at last December’s Special Olympics National Games in Hamilton compared to the teams with far more athletes and resources.

“I can’t wait to see how this team keeps growing and developing their sporting skills”.

The Special Olympians and volunteers collectively celebrate good bowls from their teammates and offer support and advice when mistakes are made with consistent positivity – while still keeping competitive spirits high.

“I can’t remember when I first came to bowling, but it’s always so fun interacting with all my friends here” says Jennifer, before finishing off two pins for a spare.

“I love being a part of this team, they give me and each other so much support”, remarks fellow bowler Rawiti.

“I’m the first transgender Special Olympian here and the amount of love and support they gave me when I first started made me cry with happiness”. Despite stepping away from the team management role last year, Saturday mornings for Brian Huntley and his son Sefo are “always a real highlight every week”.