The Durango Special Olympics program earned another accolade for a strong volleyball season.
The unified volleyball teams claimed second place in their respective divisions at the state tournament in Denver recently.
Durango’s Dynamites took down Colorado Springs’ Over the Top 2-1 twice before falling to the Colorado Springs Grizzlies 2-1. The Dynamites regrouped and took down the Grizzlies 2-1 to force a decisive game. The Grizzlies won the championship match 2-1.
The Dynamites were represented by Bradley Jones, Greg Maxey and Robert Mestas.
Durango’s Mighty Mites took down the Loveland Pirates 2-1 before a 2-1 loss to the Fort Collins Rebels. The Mighty Mites bounced back to beat the DPR Spikers 2-1 before a 2-0 loss to the Fort Collins Rebels in the championship match.
The Mighty Mites consisted of Eliyah Lucero, Kelsey Michael, Christina New Holy and Carrie Oyebi.
Also competing was Richard Siegele, who participated in the individual skills competition and took first place in his division to earn the gold medal.
Durango Special Olympics also credited the work of Molly Rodgers, Jacob Rubidoux, Chery and Jonathon Waugh and Ashley Yushang for their work in practices all year.
The teams were coached by Josh Maes and Kelsey Prior, both Fort Lewis College students. Keith McAlister helped make it all happen by driving the team’s bus.
Next up is Special Olympics basketball season. Practices will begin Jan. 20. New participants may contact head coach Cathy Simbeck at 247-7586 for registration information.
heraldsports@durangoherald.com
