"We Are the Champions!" 

May 4, 2026 – Article by Sarah Brewster – On Saturday, May 2nd, the Mariposa Miners Special Olympics team traveled to Fresno State for a regional Bocce Ball competition against Stanislaus, Kings, Tuolumne, Calaveras, Madera and Fresno Counties. The dangling carrot was pizza. They were promised pizza if they won the gold medal!

After a three-games round robin, the team made the most points and were awarded the Gold Medal. They all sang "We Are the Champions" by Queen then enjoyed their pizza on the way home with their well-earned medals.

Coaches Shelly Gerken, Sheri Mace and Sarah Brewster were so proud of their amazing efforts and sportsmanship.

Picture of whole team with their medals:

(Pictured left to right): Coach Sarah Brewster, Sarah Gerken, Aidan Mace, Emily Beck, Captain, Bob Shear, Kathy Mitchell and Coach Shelly Gerken

Picture with Sarah throwing ball:

(Pictured left to right): Bob Shear, Aidan Mace, Emily Beck and Sarah Gerken throwing the Bocce ball

Last group picture:

(Pictured left to right): Sarah Gerken, Coach Sheri Mace, Emily Beck, Kathy Mitchell, Aidan Mace and Bob Shear