BRUNSWICK — The new Bath-Brunswick Area Adult Special Olympics Bears team brought home 41 medals and several ribbons from the State Special Olympics Summer Games in Orono June 8-10.

The first-year team consisted of 26 athletes.

While medals and ribbons are not the focal point of Special Olympics, the joy that overtook each winning athlete defined the spirit of the games. As the athletes stepped onto the podium, their happiness and sense of accomplishment was clearly evident.

Leading the way were the coaches — Jim Franklin (head coach), Holly Spence, Mike Hays, David Schall and Connie French-Smith. Family volunteers and staff from Independence Association and Elmhurst also contributed strongly to the team’s success.

The organization thanks the dedicated coaches, staff and family volunteers. And, the Bowdoin College Student Athletic Council contributed $1,500 to help with the transportation and registration fees, along with a start-up grant to the Schall family.

Medal winners from the local group were:

Gold — Dana Albright, Kelly Caton, Erin Connor, Eugene Crocker, Heather Desjardins, Matt Durrell, Matt Escalano, Julie Gallagher, Jen Labbe, Michael O’Connell, Mitch Pfeifle, Kate Riordan, Nicole Ruest and Terri Snape

Silver — Dana Albright, Erin Conner, Eugene Crocker, Matt Durrell, Matt Escalano, Adam Fraser, Jen Labbe, Michael O’Connell, Tina Peaslee, Mitch Pfeifle, Kristi Schall and Nancy Scott

Bronze — Erin Connor, Heather Desjardins, Kory Fairbrother, Kate Riordan, Nancy Scott, Terri Snape and Jay Testa

The BBAASO Bears will offer soccer and golf later this summer.

For more information, send an email to [email protected]