(From left) First row: Sandy Bibler, Julia Radford and Jennifer Vance. Row two: Matt Swartz, Wayne Radford, Gary Paxton and Courtney Linnemeier. (Photo provided)
Special Olympics Kosciusko County held its annual athlete awards dinner on Tuesday, Aug. 19, at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Warsaw.
There were just over 100 athletes, parents, volunteers and coaches according to Becky Walls, Kosciusko County coordinator for Special Olympics.
Jane Wear, CEO of Cardinal Services was the featured speaker and provided a great motivational talk to the group stressing the importance of their hard work. Every athlete received acknowledgment for their participation at the banquet.
Special recognition was given to the spirit of the Special Olympics award winners. Matt Swartz was chosen as coach of the year. Matt coached the county basketball team.
Courtney Linnemeier was the volunteer of the year leading an exceptional effort with the Wawasee basketball fund raising event.
Sandy Bibler was selected as athlete of the year. Sandy participated in bowling, basketball, bocce and corn toss.
Lastly, the Paxton family was recognized as the family of the year which included Gary Paxton, Julia Radford, Wayne Radford and Jennifer Vance. They exemplified the qualities of caring and giving in the Special Olympics Spirit.
Athletes are currently participating in bowling, flag football and corn toss sponsored by Special Olympics Kosciusko County.