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Special Olympics Volleyball Team Brings Home the Gold
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Athletes from Fulton, Montgomery and Hamilton counties traveled to the Summer
Games at Hofstra University in Long Island this past week. This recently formed
team competes with other Special Olympic teams from across New York State. Some
athletes compete only in individual volleyball skills such as passing, serving,
and setting. Over 25 athletes practice regularly at Saint Mary’s Institute in
Amsterdam and at Canajoharie Central School.
Coached by Mike and Diane Houghton, the team came away with an 11-3 record
which took them to finals on their second day of play. Consistent serving,
awesome digs, and an intense desire to win kept the team spirit high.
Skills competitors led by Coach, Melissa Bulgar, brought home 4 medals: Ryan
Decker and Jimmy Cleary – gold, Tommy Cuyler – silver, and Nicole Bellamy –
bronze.
Coaches, Mike and Diane, believe the key to the team’s success was the
tremendous effort and high level of enthusiasm by all. We look forward to next
year’s volleyball season and the many smiles it will bring.
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Back row, from left to right: David Lopez, Ed King, Joe Green, Shane Kilinski.
Middle row: Traci Czelusniak, Shannon Blankenbaker, Leeann Simzer, Monserrate
Mato. Front row: Jennie Jones, Steve MacPhail.
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Tommy Cuyler, Ryan Decker, Jimmy Cleary, and Nicole Bellamy
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