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Sunday, August 23rd, 2026

Special Athletes Bring Home the Gold

Mar 16, 2026 | Front Page, Sports

Coaches Bob Gladwell and Jay Rynda (left) and Coach JC Eckert (right) flank the athletes: goalie Michael Gladwell, Hannah Troncoso, April Baldwin, Payson Griffiths, Madison Meares and Cedric Obonyano. (Photo Credit: John Nugent, SOSC)

The road to the 2026 Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) floorball championship began in December 2025 with practices every week in the Mark Richardson Hall at the Lake Arrowhead Community Presbyterian Church.

On Saturday, Feb. 28, at The Rinks, a world-class facility in Irvine, the SOSC winter season’s biggest moments unfolded – fast breaks, fierce teamwork and the kind of electric energy only championship day can deliver.

Athletes from across Southern California hit the court and gave it their all, while families, fans and supporters packed the sidelines to cheer on every goal and great play.

It was a day of high-intensity action, unforgettable sportsmanship and community pride for the Rim of the World team, who brought home the gold.

“We are so proud of our athletes; our team of six had no rest periods for five games and came together in the final half to win the gold!” said Head Coach Bob Gladwell.

The spring season has begun with practices for bocce, followed by the summer season with bowling and the fall season with golf.

Special Olympics is free to all athletes. To join, contact Polly Sauer, the local program coordinator at psauer@yahoo.com.

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