Craig Mitchell and Laurie Masterson are back home after a busy and exhausting week in Launceston for the Special Olympics National Games.
Over 700 athletes from all states and territories in Australia competed in 10 sports over 5 days - 17 - 21 October.
To recap: Two Special Olympics South Coast athletes were selected to play for NSW/ACT in basketball: Craig Mitchell was Captain of the NSW/ACT men’s A Grade basketball team.
Laurie Masterson played in the NSW/ACT men’s B grade team.
It was a gruelling schedule for the athletes with the men playing 2 games/day until the finals on Friday.
Craig’s team was in the playoff for Bronze against Queensland. After a tough game, which is not reflected in the final score, Queensland defeated NSW/ACT 50 - 31.
Craig spoke about the high level of skill displayed by the other teams. He also commented on the sportsmanship and friendliness both on court and off. “Even though we played hard, everyone got on really well - there were no bad sports”.
Laurie’s team was in the playoff for Gold, but were defeated 30 - 16 by the Victorian Men’s team. Laurie said that it was a hard game, and everyone kept trying their best the whole game through.
Kathy Godwin, Chair of the Special Olympics South Coast said "Even though Special Olympics South Coast is a small club in a big organisation, it’s wonderful that our athletes do us proud at National level. This is an opportunity open to any athlete at any skill level who is a member of Special Olympics".
Above: Laurie Masterson (left) with the Silver medal winning team.
Above: Craig Mitchell (left) with the 4th place ribbon winners
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