COLERAINE FC extends its well wishes to a couple of well known supporters who have been rewarded for their own sporting excellence…

By: Michael Anderson

Showgrounds regulars William Montgomery and Sean Campbell are among six members of the Causeway Coast Special Olympics team selected to represent Team Ulster at ten pin bowling at next year’s Special Olympics Ireland.

It’s safe to say that when it comes to ten pin bowling, William and Sean – along with team-mates Lee Rouke, Jason Smyth, Thomas McGowan and Alisia McCauley – can roll with the best.

Initially almost 1,050 athletes took part in trial competitions organised by the Special Olympics organisation.

That was whittled down to a final total of 22 ten pin bowlers, joining another 202 athletes from other sports going to Dublin on 18th June 2026 for three days of competition.

The first event was held at Dundonald Ice Bowl, with the second tournament staged at the SSE Arena.

“It is a great achievement by the club to get six bowlers selected,” said Sports Officer Dougie Fillis, who has been involved with the Causeway Coast club for 21 years.

Dougie, like William and Sean, follows the Bannsiders home and away every week.

“Special thanks has to go to all the volunteers who turn up every week to keep the club running,” added Dougie.

Sean is the only one of the six bowlers to have taken part at this level of competition before.

“We are delighted for the other five to be able to go and have an experience they will never forget,” added Dougie.

One of those debutants is William Montgomery, who rarely misses a Coleraine match.

He has been bowling since he was just four years old when his parents Deborah and Johnny – both passionate Coleraine fans too – first took him to the Jet Centre.

The 17-year-old has progressed through the ranks to become one of the top players.

“We are very proud of William,” said mum Deborah.

“All six players have done brilliantly to reach this stage.”

William joined the Causeway Coast team when he was ten and has been ever present since.

When Dougie first helped out, there were around 14 members.

The club now boasts approximately 60 members and also has a swimming club, with a waiting list to join.

As William, Sean and his team mates have already shown, Causeway Coast Special Olympics Club has talent to ‘spare’!

Coleraine FC wishes everyone involved the very best of luck.