To the editor:
It has been my honor, privilege and pleasure to serve as the volunteer head coach of the Special Olympics Aroostook Snowdogs basketball team over the past two years. Thanks to the financial support of countless individuals and businesses throughout our community, on April 12-14, 25 Snowdogs, coaches, and support staff, along with over 75 Snowdog fans traveled to the University of Southern Maine for the statewide Special Olympics basketball tournament. This tournament was the culmination of a season-long effort on the part of the Snowdogs that began with our very first practice on December 1st.
Throughout the year the Snowdogs were committed to improving their basketball skills, being great teammates to each other, exhibiting fine sportsmanship, being accountable for their own actions, and representing themselves well. As we arrived in southern Maine and throughout the weekend, and as I witnessed their actions on and off the basketball court, I was in awe of each and every Special Olympian. Their hard work throughout the season in every aspect of their lives paid off during tournament weekend. Not only did our two teams bring home Gold and Bronze medals, they were a first class act in all respects.
The Snowdogs are wearing their medals proudly, but to me their accomplishments are far reaching well beyond wins and losses on the basketball court. The Snowdogs represented themselves, their families, their case workers and their community extremely well, and they are very proud for doing so.
Coach Brian applauds the Snowdogs, and is so proud to be their coach and to be a part of their wonderful lives. On behalf of all the Snowdogs, I want to thank our wonderful community for their untiring support throughout the year. You have made a difference in the lives of the Snowdogs and we will be forever grateful.
Coach Brian N. Hamel
and his 25 Snowdogs
Presque Isle
