Eagle County Special Olympics Team Heads to State Competition

Avon, Colorado - January 18th, 2026 - The Eagle County Special Olympics bowling team is celebrating a resounding victory, earning a coveted spot in the State Bowling Competition, set to take place in Denver from March 12th to 14th, 2026. The team's qualification follows a stellar performance at the regional qualifying tournament held in Avon this past Saturday. This achievement represents a significant milestone for the program and the dedicated athletes involved.
Coach Julie Berger expressed immense pride in the team's accomplishments. "Our bowlers did really well, and we're really proud of them," she stated, underscoring the hard work and dedication displayed throughout the qualifying tournament. The State Competition is a prestigious event, bringing together athletes from across Colorado to compete at the highest level. For the Eagle County team, it's a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills, sportsmanship, and the power of inclusivity to a statewide audience.
The Eagle County Special Olympics program itself has experienced remarkable growth and development. Berger highlighted this evolution, noting the significant progress made by the team's members. "We had a few bowlers who just started in September, and they're now going to state. That's pretty amazing," she remarked, illustrating the transformative impact of the program on individuals' lives. The program provides a supportive and encouraging environment where athletes of all abilities can thrive, build confidence, and experience the joy of competition.
Beyond the Pins: The Impact of Special Olympics
Special Olympics is more than just a sporting competition; it's a movement dedicated to promoting inclusion, acceptance, and respect for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The program offers a wide range of sports, creating opportunities for athletes to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and build friendships. The Eagle County chapter, like many others across the nation, is committed to providing these enriching experiences to its participants.
The journey to the State Bowling Competition reflects the unwavering commitment of the coaching staff, volunteers, and families who support the Eagle County Special Olympics. It also speaks to the extraordinary resilience and determination of the athletes themselves. The team's success is a testament to their dedication to improvement and the supportive community surrounding them. The regional tournament served not only as a qualifier but also as a display of the camaraderie and spirit that defines the Special Olympics.
Looking Ahead to the State Competition
The State Bowling Competition in Denver promises to be a thrilling event. The Eagle County team is preparing diligently for the challenge, focusing on refining their skills and fostering teamwork. The competition will be fierce, with athletes representing various regions of Colorado vying for top honors. However, the Eagle County team's primary goal is to represent their county with pride and demonstrate the values of perseverance, sportsmanship, and inclusivity.
Get Involved and Learn More
For those interested in learning more about the Eagle County Special Olympics and how to get involved, a wealth of information is available online. Visit the official Eagle County Special Olympics website at [ https://www.eaglecounty.us/special-olympics/ ]. Opportunities exist to volunteer, donate, or simply show support for these remarkable athletes. Supporting the Eagle County Special Olympics is an investment in a more inclusive and vibrant community for all.
The team's qualification is a story of triumph and demonstrates the power of sports to transform lives. As they prepare to represent Eagle County on a statewide stage, the entire community is sending them its best wishes.
Read the Full Vail Daily Article at:
[ https://www.vaildaily.com/sports-and-outdoors/eagle-county-special-olympics-team-is-headed-to-the-state-bowling-competition/ ]