Bethel Special Olympics Softball Team to Complete in State Tournament This Weekend

Earlier this summer, the Bethel-based Abilitly Beyond Disability (ABD) Special Olympics softball team won the Danbury Invitation Tournament held at Rogers Park, winning all four of their games including victories over arch rival New London and a comeback championship game against an excellent Waterbury team.

Led by Coach Jeff Beekman, of Bethel, the ABD roster is full of excellent players, but none rose to the occasion as their 64-year-old first baseman MVP, who went an amazing 10 for 12, knocking in over 8 RBI’s and even when not lifted for a pinch runner, he showed some “blazing” speed scoring from second on a single to right.

Friends, teammates and the entire crowd cheered on the hometown "Blue and Yellow" ABD stars when they lifted their first trophy in many years.

Beekman now has his team primed for more success this weekend, when the Special Olympics State Tournament will be held in North Branford.

Ability Beyond Disability fields three teams with an Unified, Traditional and Tee-Ball squads. Anyone interested in watching the very best example in sportsmanship is encouraged to attend.

For more information, soct.org.