The Okmulgee County Sharks are preparing to represent their community on a statewide stage after qualifying for the 2026 Special Olympics Oklahoma Winter Games, scheduled for Jan. 8-10, in Edmond and Norman.
The OC Sharks will be represented across multiple sports, including swimming, volleyball, basketball and skillsbased competitions, highlighting the depth and dedication of the organization’s athletes and coaches.
Veteran swimmer Courtney Coleman earned his place at the Winter Games following a strong performance at the regional swimming tournament in Muskogee. Coleman will compete in the Swimming Competition in Edmond, continuing his long-standing involvement with Special Olympics Oklahoma and the OC Sharks program.
In addition to swimming, Levels 1, 2, and 3 volleyball and basketball teams, along with athletes participating in skills-based basketball activities, will represent Okmulgee County at Winter Games venues in Norman. These teams reflect a broad range of abilities and experience levels, emphasizing Special Olympics Oklahoma’s mission of providing meaningful competition opportunities for every athlete.
Special Olympics Oklahoma (SOOK) offers both competitive and skills-based sports year-round, allowing athletes to grow physically, socially, and emotionally through structured athletic programs. For OC Sharks athletes, qualifying for the Winter Games is the result of months of practice, teamwork and community support.
“The Winter Games are more than just competition,” organizers said. “They’re a celebration of effort, inclusion and the athletes who work year-round to achieve their goals.”
The Okmulgee County Sharks expressed appreciation for the many community members, families, volunteers and supporters whose encouragement and assistance have helped make participation in the Winter Games possible. From transportation and fundraising to cheering from the sidelines, that support plays a vital role in the athletes’ success.
Supporters can follow the OC Sharks’ journey during the 2026 Special Olympics Winter Games by visiting SOOK.org, where schedules, results and event updates will be posted throughout the competition.
— Singrays hold holiday concert series The OC Sharks Choir, known as the Singrays, recently brought music, fellowship and holiday cheer to Bended Knee Cowboy Church in Boynton as part of their annual Holiday Concert Series.
The church welcomed the Singrays with open arms, as Pastor Tommy Tucker and the congregation filled the pews in support of the choir’s performance. Members of Bended Knee’s women’s fellowship group, the GateKeepers, went above and beyond by providing lunch for the choir, presenting holiday gifts, and sending the Singrays off with a generous donation to support their ongoing activities.
Led by choir director Tim Davis, the Singrays have shared their Holiday Concert Series with area communities for the past ten years, continuing a tradition centered on gratitude and giving back.
“The concert series is our way of saying thank you,” organizers said. “These performances are about sharing joy and appreciation with the communities that support our athletes and programs throughout the year.”
This year’s concert series included performances at The Little Lighthouse and at Adkar Shriners’ holiday toy giveaways, where the Singrays helped create a festive atmosphere for families and children during the holiday season.
The choir will conclude this year’s Holiday Concert Series with upcoming performances in Hoffman and Okmulgee, continuing their mission of spreading encouragement and connection through music.
The Singrays are part of the Okmulgee County Sharks Special Activities Association, which offers inclusive opportunities beyond athletics, allowing participants to develop confidence, creativity and community engagement.
For more information about the Singrays and upcoming events, supporters are encouraged to visit the Okmulgee County Sharks Special Activities Association Facebook page.
— Information provided by Glynnis Coleman and the Okmulgee County Sharks.
