Silver Medal Honors a Team’s Perseverance
The St. Mary’s County men’s basketball team brought home a silver medal from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, a triumph that capped years of training, camaraderie and unwavering determination.
On August 25, 2026, the County Commissioners issued a formal proclamation lauding the athletes’ performance and the spirit they have fostered within the community, signing the document with all five commissioners.
Head coach Don Bewick and assistant coach Will Ridley highlighted the squad’s unity, emphasizing how their relentless pursuit of excellence set them apart on the national stage.
Among the roster, unified partners Will Gough and Louis Scott join teammates Rodta Maddox, Anthony Cyrus, Marty Goldsborough and Shaun Ridley, forming a close‑knit group that has grown together over multiple seasons.
The athletes also expressed gratitude to the network of family members, trainers and the Special Olympics of St. Mary’s County organization, which provided steadfast support throughout the competition.
In a heartfelt statement, Shaun Ridley thanked his teammates, coaches and the commissioners for their recognition, while Will Gough voiced pride in returning to the court each year to play alongside his friends.
Marty Goldsborough described the experience of sharing the court with his teammates as “incredible,” and Louis Scott reflected on the lasting relationships forged through years of teamwork and the hard work that led to the silver medal.
Beyond the medals, the players emphasized the joy of new friendships, the fun of competition and the sense of belonging that the Special Olympics provides, underscoring the broader impact of the games on their lives.