This Special Olympics season was filled with pride, courage, teamwork, and joy for AWARE athletes across Montana. From trying new events to competing at the State Games, athletes showed what is possible when they are supported, encouraged, and given the opportunity to shine.
For the people AWARE serves, Special Olympics is more than a season of competition. It is a chance to build confidence, strengthen friendships, travel, connect with athletes from across the state, and work toward goals that matter to them. Throughout the year, practices and competitions give athletes something exciting to look forward to and a community where they are celebrated for their effort, growth, and accomplishments.
Milestones Across Montana
This year brought several exciting milestones for AWARE teams. In Billings, eight athletes competed at the State Games after having no athletes compete at the state level last year. Elizabeth also competed in cycling, which, to the team’s knowledge, marked the first time an AWARE athlete participated in that event.
Great Falls also had a strong season, with 11 athletes competing at the State Games and representation in nearly every event. The Great Falls Hornets traveled to Billings and stayed in the dorms at MSU Billings, creating a full team experience filled with competition, connection, and memories. Their Unified soccer team earned a bronze medal in their division, showing the power of teamwork and perseverance.
In Southwest Montana, athletes embraced new opportunities as well. Brianna, Hanna, and Kristin competed in swimming, a new sport for their team. Cody, Noah, and Ethan competed in shot put for the first time. For the first time in several years, the Southwest Area Games were held locally in Anaconda at Mitchell Stadium, giving athletes the opportunity to compete in front of friends, family, and community supporters close to home.
Personal Wins and Proud Moments
The season was also filled with meaningful individual accomplishments. Tiffany was selected to read the athlete oath during the opening ceremony at the Area Games. Brooke earned gold in both the 100-meter and 50-meter dash. Noah also shared that winning gold in the 100-meter dash this year was his favorite Special Olympics memory in 14 years of competition.
Beyond medals, many of the most powerful moments came from athletes challenging themselves and growing in confidence. Jay, who had previously mastered the softball throw, took on the turbo jav this year and improved dramatically throughout the practice season. Several shot put athletes also stepped into a new event after years of competing in softball throw, showing courage, determination, and a willingness to try something new.
Stories of Confidence and Hope
For Evan, the season was an opportunity to build both friendships and personal strength. He worked hard at every practice, and his commitment helped him increase his walking ability and strength over time. His progress was a reminder that success is not only measured by competition results, but also by persistence, confidence, and personal growth.
Chris also had a meaningful season after receiving a new wheelchair shortly before leaving for the State Games. The added comfort and support helped him compete with greater confidence, and he went on to throw his best distances in turbo jav, earning a bronze medal. He also placed fourth in bocce with his teammate.
Celebrating What Matters Most
Across every team, event, and competition, one message was clear: athletes were happy to compete, excited to see their friends, and proud to be part of the Special Olympics community.
This season beautifully reflects AWARE Ink’s theme of Prevention. Support. Hope. Through encouragement, teamwork, and meaningful connection, Special Olympics gives the people AWARE serves opportunities to grow, belong, and celebrate what they can achieve. It is a season worth honoring, not only for the medals earned, but for the confidence built, friendships formed, and joy shared along the way.