CASPER – Platte County was well represented as the team participated in the fall state games 2022 in Casper last week from Oct. 5-7.

“Special Olympics fall state games 2022 was an absolute blast,” said Special Olympics coach Kayla Robinett. “When we got up there Wednesday, they had opening ceremonies where they welcomed all the Wyoming teams to the fall season State games, and kicked off the celebration of Special Olympics in Wyoming for 50 years.”

The Platte County Special Olympians have been training for the past few months for the state games and did not disappoint.

“The athletes went with positive attitudes and ready to work hard and have fun,” Robinett said. Our athletes competed in singles bowling.”

Monika Ockinga got a Gold medal, her sister, Miranda Ockinga also earned a gold medal. Eli Jaren earned a Silver Metal. Jordan McClain took home Bronze. Amy Copsey got a Silver.

“We then had the victory banquet and the theme was The Wild, Wild West,” Robinett said. “The athletes dressed up and danced the night away. It was another fun and successful session. Each one of our athletes show up with such passion and enjoyment for each and every sport they compete in. They are hardworking and dedicated, but most important, they have so much fun and get to come together with athletes from all over the state and remind all of us what it looks like to overcome so many obstacles while putting their best foot forward never losing that spark in their eye. Win or lose they are proud.”

The athlete oath is, "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt," and those words are shown through all of their performances each and every time. There will be a small break before coming back together for Basketball next season.

“We would love to see our team continue to grow and hope to see some new faces in the upcoming seasons,” said Robinett.

There will be a Special Olympics Holiday Extravaganza Nov. 12 at Wheatland Middle School 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. where several crafters will be set up along with bake sales, raffle baskets and pictures with Santa. For more information, email PCSpecialolympics@hotmail.com  Money will be used to purchase much needed equipment as well as get the kids to their next challenge.