The Battlefords Special Olympics celebrated another successful year with their year end awards banquet. (Submitted Photo/Battlefords Special Olympics)
Year End Awards

Battlefords Special Olympics cap off another great year

Jun 17, 2025 | 6:00 AM

It was nothing but cheers and heartfelt applause as athletes, families, and supporters gathered to celebrate the Battlefords Special Olympics year-end wind-up and awards ceremony last week.

The evening recognized the hard work and dedication of every athlete who participated in the program throughout the year. Each athlete was acknowledged for their commitment with several individuals receiving trophies for their achievements.

This year’s award winners included:
Best Attendance – Cletus Gerlinsky
Best All-Around Athlete – Michael Brumby
Most Consistent Curler – LoriAnn Berry
Top Notch Bocce – Ethan Bartko
Deepest Diver Award – Bradley Auchstaetter
Excellent Effort Award (Gym/Fitness Program) – Victoria Machniak
Most Humble Award – Gordon Kryzanowski

Parent volunteer and Battlefords Special Olympics Treasurer Linda Machniak emphasized the vital role Special Olympics plays in the lives of local athletes.

“This is a really big part of having a full life for these young people with activities that support their physical and mental health. It’s a fun opportunity to get out there, and they are just so excited to be able to participate. They have so much fun when they’re at any of the events,” Machniak said.

The program offers more than just competition as it also provides a sense of connection, inclusion, and community.

“It’s really important that they have an opportunity to do activities, social events, exercise, and just have some fun while they are at it,” Machniak added.

Like many community programs, the Battlefords chapter is calling for additional support.

“Any Special Olympics group would tell you that they could use more volunteers. We don’t have enough people to offer some of the other sports or activities because we’re short of coaches or volunteers. So, if there’s someone interested in volunteering, they can definitely reach out to the local club, we’d be happy to have them,” said Machniak.

To find out more or learn about volunteer opportunities, visit their website.

Austin.mattes@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @AustinMattes

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