Special Olympics bocce returning
Each Monday and Tuesday, George Furlan heads to one of his favorite spots – the bocce courts at Veterans Park on Coronado Parkway.
Furlan, 72, is a seasoned veteran at the sport, but it’s during this time, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., that he receives his greatest fulfillment by coaching members of the local Special Olympics team.
“It’s the best thing that ever happened to my life,” said Furlan, who is in his fifth year as a coach.
He believes the team – which is up to 20-25 participants – is ready for their next competitive challenge. It comes next weekend when a State Invitational Special Olympics Bocce Tournament is held in Cape Coral.
More than 150 individuals, participants and volunteers, will converge at the bocce courts at Veterans Park.
The event runs 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday with a two-on-two team competition, and a one-on-one individual tournament is scheduled Saturday, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Players include male and female, ranging in age from 20 to 50.
This is the second year for the event. The Lee County team already has won numerous championships by competing around the state. Another is scheduled for May 15 in Orlando.
“I feel wonderful about this team,” Furlan added. “Sometimes you’re not sure what is possible, but I think this team is going far.”