TACOMA – Nine members from the Golden Eagles athletics (track-and-field) team recently competed at Joint Base Lewis McChord in the Special Olympics Washington Summer (State) Games.

Hundreds of athletes from across the state were in attendance for the competition, which was held May 30 through

June 1. Following outstanding performances by all the athletes, many placement ribbons and medals were awarded to the Bainbridge Island team.

Congratulations to go to David Bartoldus, Tanner Conrad, Kristina Emery, Stephen Hetzenbihler, William (Bill) Kelley, Ryan Kerr, Jennifer Mullis, Rebecca Nickel and Michael Wallace from the Bainbridge team on winning and being brave in the attempt.

The Golden Eagles would like to thank everyone who helped make the state trip possible and especially thank the Bainbridge Island Police Department for their continued contributions through the Law Enforcement Officers Torch Run; coaches Kimberly Goodwin, Jan and Craig Fredrickson; and those who donate to Special Olympics Washington.

The Bainbridge Island Special Olympics effort on the island (and often reaching out to North Kitsap communities) is always looking for interested volunteers to expand the program into additional sports, such as swimming, golf, baseball, cycling, weight lifting and more, and to relieve current volunteer coaches. Team leaders note that it’s a very rewarding experience and a cause well-supported by many outstanding organizations and individuals within Washington state.

For more information on helping out, visit www.SOWA.org or contact Kurt Nickel at 206-780-0871 or familynickel@comcast.net, or Adam Kleiven at 206-414-6381 or adamkleiven@hotmail.com.