Teams from Issaquah, Renton, Kent, Auburn, and Federal Way turned the Tibbetts Valley Park field into a softball extravaganza on Saturday for the King County Region round of the Special Olympics. The winners in each division, which were decided late in the day, will move on to represent the county at the state level in Everett at the end of August.

Young and old, the experienced and the rookies, played hard, fair ball, cheered on by passionate fans.

One of the big surprise packets of the day was the new kids on the block, the Issaquah Lions, who in their first season together, led by coach Ted Stamper, won their division. Stamper, who has been involved with coaching Special Olympics teams for the past 10 years, was understandably proud of his charges.

“These are the most genuine athletes you’ll ever meet,” he said. “In fact, they’re the most genuine people.”

The Reporter will update scores and final results as they come to hand.

Congratulations to all players and supporters, for a great day of hard fought, enjoyable sport, played in the true spirit of the game.