At its annual Night of Champions, Special Olympics New Jersey honors and celebrates outstanding individuals and groups.
In the year leading up to the big event, award candidates are identified and nominated by their peers. These nominations are reviewed by a committee, and finally the award recipients are revealed. Awards categories include 13 outstanding county athletes, several volunteers, spirit awards, Special Olympics New Jersey Hall of Fame, Law Enforcement Torch Run Hall of Fame, and a Lifetime Achievement award.
The Outstanding Volunteer Official Award recognizes exemplary voluntary service by an individual sports official at Special Olympics New Jersey state competitions and events. The award was presented by Adam Eng, SONJ athlete and Board of Trustees member.
“Through their commitment and passion, the Bocce Volunteer Officials, who have over 100 years of dedicated service to our mission, have enabled hundreds of athletes to compete each year.
Tonight, we celebrate their journey and the countless hours spent making bocce a cherished sport. While a game may only last 20 minutes, we recognize the true effort it takes to make our events come together. We appreciate the hundreds of hours spent commuting, preparing, and officiating. Your dedication to our program will leave a lasting legacy.
Roseann Argyelan, Dana Barton, Angelique Romano, Christian Sontag, Matt Foley, and Michele Cornell represented all Bocce Officials and accepted the award.“