Mat Patrzalek has been an athlete with Special Olympics since 2010 and was introduced to the program by the AS3 bowling team coach, Chris Odding. Aside from 5 pin bowling, he is also a part of the 10 pin bowling program.

“What I like about bowling is the chance to meet people and respecting their boundaries,” he said. “For this sport, we have to work as a team and work hard.”

Although a lot of effort goes into bowling, Patrzalek said that it’s not all about winning or losing. What is more important is meeting new people, making friends, and having a fun time. He describes the atmosphere of the 5 pin bowling team as energetic and exciting.

Patrzalek said that Special Olympics has given him the opportunity to go to Provincials and learn to work as a team. And through this sport, he has made many friends from his teammates.

One memory that Patrzalek has of Special Olympics that he remembers clearly is the time he shot four strikes in a row. 

Patrzalek encourages anyone who is thinking of joining Special Olympics to sign up. He said that the more people playing sports, the better. Signing up is very easy and hopes more people will join the programs that Special Olympics offers.