Nine Medals for the Schlockerhof at the Special Olympics
EVIM athletes win three gold, two silver, and four bronze medals at the 2026 National Games in Saarland—and impress with their team spirit and strong performances.
In mid-June, approximately 4,300 athletes from all over Germany competed in 27 sports at the Special Olympics National Games in the Saarland. The swimming competitions alone took place in Forbach, France, with about 550 participants.
Ten athletes competed in various disciplines for EVIM’s Schlockerhof. They were accompanied by professionals from EVIM Teilhabe, family members, and a volunteer supporter from among the clients, who showed great dedication to the team.
Strong Performances in Track and Field, Equestrian, and Swimming
The competitions were particularly successful for the Schlockerhof athletes. In total, they won three gold, two silver, and four bronze medals. They also secured three fourth-place finishes, one sixth-place finish, and two seventh-place finishes.
Among the sporting highlights was the 10,000-meter race. In an exceptionally strong field of competitors, Simon Eilbert secured the bronze medal with the third-fastest time in Germany.
Alexander Niklas won two bronze medals in equestrian events. Pierre Geisel also sprinted to a bronze medal in the 100-meter dash.
Swimmers Jessica Mäuer and Anja Brestel provided some particularly memorable moments of success. Together, they won two silver medals as well as two gold medals in the 25- and 50-meter freestyle events. Silas Gaub also stood at the top of the podium, securing the gold medal in the mini javelin throw.
“National Games Just as They Should Be”
Ralf Thies and Tanja Klemm, specialists in the “Startklar” program at EVIM Teilhabe and long-time coaches of the athletes, were thrilled by the competitions. “These were National Games just as they should be,” Ralf Thies summarized his impressions.
He was particularly impressed by the more than 6,000 volunteers who, despite the summer heat, ensured optimal conditions with water stations, misting systems, and a great deal of helpfulness. “The support was extraordinary. The volunteers put their hearts and minds into making sure the athletes could focus entirely on their sport.” For the coaches, team spirit was at least as important as the athletic achievements.
“Everyone supported one another, cheered together, and helped each other bounce back after great battles. Our volunteer Leonie Hädrich was truly a blessing. That team spirit was something very special.”
More Than Medals
The parents of one athlete also shared moving words when they addressed the entire team during the Games. “This sporting event has shown what can be achieved with motivation, willpower, and team spirit.” The Games impressively demonstrated what people with disabilities can accomplish when they receive the necessary support.
Delegation leader Nicole Dehmer also drew a positive conclusion. The National Games were exceptionally well-organized and consistently put the athletes and their performances front and center. For the Schlockerhof team, what remains most memorable—besides the medals—are the shared experiences, the enthusiasm for sports, and the feeling of being part of a strong community. (hk)