The Special Olympics Association Innisfail chapter is celebrating its first award night next month.
The group, just started last July, is still in its infancy with 14 athletes and two available sports.
"We're trying to get the word out there. Hopefully we can get more people on board," said Gavin Lobb chairman of the chapter. He said there is about 60 people between Bowden and Spruce View who would qualify as an athlete but so far the chapter has 14 participants.
On April 3, medals will be presented to the athletes at the Innisfail Bowling alley, the most popular sport the chapter offers.
"We have 100 per cent participation because anyone can do it," said Lobb. "Most just like to come out and have fun but we have about five athletes who are quite eligible for team Alberta," he said as an example.
Gymnastics is the other sport, with about six of the members involved.
Lobb said because the group is still in its first year, they haven't held any tournaments but added with Olds chapter and now Rocky Mountain House starting one, he hopes he can get scheduled game time between the three communities.
And this summer, he said bocce will be added to the list of available sports.
"We need volunteers. High school students looking at going into early childhood education or teacher after school could come and get some great experience."
The group accepts athletes from Innisfail, Bowden Spruce View, Penhold and surrounding areas. Anyone interested in joining or volunteering can call Lobb at 403-227-1847 or pick up an application at Timeless Monuments on main street.
The awards presentation starts at 1pm April 3 with lunch at 12:30.
One person will also receive the Wendy Schmidt commemorative plaque.
