Athlete of the Month
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Athlete of the Month
Volunteer of the Month
Sponsor of the Month
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January 2010
Ashley Magill and Dottie Magill
We appreciate your selecting us as the Family of the Month. Special Olympics is a most fulfilling part of our lives.
Ashley has competed at the area and state levels in equestrian events (Dressage and Equitation) for about six years and
in gymnastics for two years. She also participates in bowling. She works very hard at all that she does and for that
reason, her dad and I are so proud of her accomplishments.
I have coached Artistic Gymnastics for two years. It is funny how another mom and I were asked if we wanted to "help" with
the program two years ago and when we showed up for a meeting, Nin tapped us as head coaches! I had no idea how my
heart would get so attached to the gymnasts and to their parents. My athletes are very talented and they learned their
routines and performed beautifully at Area and at State. Our other coaches and volunteers were a joy to work with.
As a parent, I appreciate all the coaches and volunteers who give wonderful opportunities and support to our children.
Thank you for letting them be successful in many ways. As a coach, I enjoy being with these young folks to experience
their joy as they give their best efforts. It is heart-warming!
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December 2009
Beth Newberg
Gymnastics, Swimming and Power Lifting
I am soo excited to know that Beth has been chosen athlete of the month. Beth began with Special Olympics when she
was 10 years old (she is now 22). (I can't remember if she started and 9 and turned 10 that year or if she was 10 and
turned 11 that year). I believe that she was 10 and turned 11. She began with just horsebackriding with Elise Hume
(sp?). She competed at the state games that year, 1997, and for the next two years. In 1998 Beth began swimming with
Special Olympics and was able to go to the state competition in Pennsacola. Beth has had the opportunity to compete at
the state level in swimming 6 or 7 times since 1998. In 2000 she began gymnastics. That year she was lucky enough to
be chosen to tour with the "TJ Maxx Tour of Gymnastics Champions" in Tampa and Miami. Mary Beth did her ribbon
routine in front of 10,000 people!!! At the state competition that year Beth was selected to be the Inspirational Athlete!!
What a great year. Since then Mary Beth has continued with swimming, gymnastics and this year she gave Power Lifting a
try. I think she enjoyed it. Again Mary Beth was honored by the award of "Most Inspiriational Athlete". I am not sure how
Beth inspires others, but, I know how Seminole County Special Olympics has motivated her and how the wonderful people
I've met have certainly inspired me. My family and I will forever be indebted to Seminole County Special Olympics through
their volunteers and athletes and the families who support them.
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November 2009
Laurie and Trenten Cox
Trenten and I have been involved in Special Olympics in central Fl for about 4 years now. We absolutely love it. Trenten
is always playing some sort of sport and I am always cheering him as well as all the other athletes on.
Special Olympics have done so much for the both of us. It gives him the opportunity to play all the sports that he loves
and it gives me the chance to enjoy watching him, and so much more than this. We both have met such wonderful people
and made such wonderful friendships that we cannot thank SOSC enough. Both of our lives have changed so much and
all for the better.
Trenten has grown so much over these few years and in so many ways. He enjoys all the time with his friends and he
loves going on the trips to all the competitions and tournaments. Even if he doesn't get a gold medal he is still on top of
the world and has had a great experience.
I too have grown in many ways, learning and helping others who have different challenges than ours. But we all do our
best and we all are their for each other. Through both the good and the bad. I love cheering on the athletes know matter
if they win or come in last, they are all winners to me.
Special Olympics has enhanced both of our lives and I always try to get others to join and get involved. I know they will be
better for it.
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October 2009
Bob & Maureen and Tammy Schlier
The Schlier family actively participates in and supports Special Olympics. Tammy Schlier has been a Special Olympics
athlete since around the age of 10. She has participated in a host of Special Olympics sports including swimming,
horseback riding, bowling, tennis, power lifting, basketball and gymnastics. These sports have helped to improve her
coordination and social skills as well as enabling her to develop a healthy lifestyle. She particularly loves the competitions
and parties. Bob and Maureen Schlier are big supporters of Tammy's Special Olympic activities and are there to cheer her
on during her training and competitions. During bowling season, you can find Bob at Casselberry AFM Lanes, coaching
the athletes and teaching them bowling skills. Maureen helps out when needed at bowling and you can also find her at
tennis practice assisting in getting the team in shape before tennis season (Mainly she tosses tennis balls and ducks when
necessary). The Schlier family is extremely grateful for Special Olympics and all thewonderful volunteers. They truly make
the world a better place.
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September 2009
Hope Llyod - Gymnastics
As told by her mother, Vicki
Hope was a typical D. S. child, a bit slow in development, but I had seen other DS kids doing great things and I wondered
what the parents had done to make this happen. For us it has been Special Olympics and the associations we have made
there. Hope has been in the gymnastics program for 3 years and every year has moved forward in the ability to
participate and accomplish goals. As a single parent I would never have been able to provide this opportunity for her so
this has been an amazing blessing to be a part of the program. Hope also participates in Girl Scouts, Belly Dancing and
Soccer. As a pre-teen just starting a regular Middle school program, Hope is maturing and taking the gymnastics more
seriously. She loves the friendly volunteers and especially loves working with the teenagers because she CAN'T wait to
be one herself.
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August 2009
Jessica Lomba - Swimming, Basketball, Gymnastics, Track & Field and Powerlifting
As told by her mother, Connie
Jessica has been participating in Special Olympics since her early teens. At the time we lived in Mobile, Alabama, where
she participated in swimming, t-ball, track & field and weight lifting. Jessica has always been the "star", because of the joy
she has doing the sports and the cheers from others.
We moved to Lake Mary in 1992. Right away we made the connections for her to get started, and ever since she has
been participating - in t-ball, track & field, swimming, basketball, gymnastics, and powerlifting. Jessica is also very active
with the Altamonte Springs Special Needs program, doing belly dancing, cheer
leading and other activities.
I like to keep Jessica involved because I it is important for her to be active and share with friends. All Jessica cares about
when she participates is to have fun and give joy and love to others.
" I enjoy being with my friends and improving my skills"
- Jessica
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July 2009
Earnistina & Amanda Brown- Volleyball, Swimming
Our first opportunity to be a part of Special Olympics was 2006-2007. Earnestina was an Equestrian Athlete (she loved
it!). Our next opportunity was working with Seminole County Special Olympics, Earnestina started with swimming. The
opportunity was very good for her; she is still swimming and loving it. When we traveled to State last year (2008) she
offered to help as a volunteer with the young ones. This year (2009) she has done volleyball, bowl-a-thons along with
swimming and bowling. My goal is to support and encourage Earnestina in all of her endeavors.
My prayer as a mother and believer is to assist in whatever way I can which includes volunteering at various events. I hope
that the smiles on our face will inspire others to consider helping to make a difference in the lives of very special people.
We are very thankful to be a part of this organization. We are also thankful for the opportunity to work with a lot of great
coaches, coordinators and other parent volunteers.
Earnestina, I am so proud of you!!!!!!
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June 2009
Mohammed Rahin - Soccer, Swimming
Mohammed joined soccer earlier this year. Our intention was to provide him an opportunity to play some sports. But the
dedicated coaches, especially Coach Jenni, made him progress beyond our wildest dreams. He won a gold medal in the
local, county and also state games! Word spread and many of his teachers came to cheer him on at the state games. We
look forward to him playing on the soccer team in the future.
Mohammed was diagnosed as PDD/Autism at the age of 3. At that time, his future looked very bleak. We could not have
imagined him playing soccer, let alone being competitive and winning medals. With the right teachers and coaches on his
side, he seems to overcome many challenges. We look forward to his participation in swimming this session and are
deeeply thankful to Special Olympics for their time, effort and dedication towards special children. Our gratitude and
admiration for you is beyond words.
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May 2009
Waddell Family - Lauren, Steve, and Carol
When my wife Carol came to me and said my daughter Lauren wanted to participate in the Special Olympics Tennis
program, and they were looking for someone to teach the athletes tennis, I didn’t hesitate to volunteer. I’ve been playing
competitive tennis since the 1980’s, and felt this was a great way for me to get involved. My daughter Lauren who has
Down’s syndrome has always enjoyed sports, however because of a stroke she had while undergoing cancer treatment,
left her with very gross motor function in her left hand. Amazingly through tennis, she has learned to release the tennis
ball during the serving part of the drills, which has helped her use her left hand more effectively in everyday life. My wife
Carol has done an amazing job juggling her job at Florida Hospital with the many commitments she has outside of work.
Carol originally got Lauren involved with Special Olympics through basketball and gymnastics. All of which she has
supported with the enthusiasm, only a mother can give. Watching the skills of these athletes progress week after week
reinforces the value Special Olympics bring to special needs. I take great pleasure in seeing the enthusiasm everyone
brings, and the positive attitude from all the parents and caregivers who participate. I’m grateful for the help and
donations from my colleagues who have donated many tennis rackets and tennis balls. I’m also thankful for the real life
advice I’ve gotten from Kevin, that has allowed me to become a more effective communicator, and as a result, a better
coach for our athletes. I will always be there for Special Olympics in whatever capacity I’m needed. It is truly an honor to
be a part of this. Best Regards, Steve Waddell
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April 2009
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March 2009
Jacob Groves, Basketball and Volleyball
Jacob plays basketball and volleyball, and may soon participate in other sports as well. He is a gifted athlete - completely
ambidextrous and deceptively fast. But that isn't the amazing part of his story.
At age five, he was diagnosed as autistic. Three years later, he was discovered to have Stage 3 Hodgkin's lymphoma. The
disease had spread through three-quarters of his torso and the situation was dire. As he underwent chemotherapy, he
went completely bald and weighed less than fifty pounds. We came very close to losing him. But thanks to the Lord and
the wonderful people at the University of Arizona Pediatric Cancer Center, he came through and has now been cancer-
free for eleven years.
Jacob loves sports, and we are so thankful to Special Olympics that he gets a chance to use his talents and have such
fun. He enjoys not only competing, but also being with other athletes and working together as a team. To see the boy who
was once so frail he could not sit up, now running and jumping with unbridled joy, we thank God. Every day with Jacob is
another blessing.
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February 2009
Andrew Lytle - Basketball and Bocce
Andrew is a 14 year old who has Spina Bifida with Hydrocephalus. He uses a walker and wears AFO braces. Andrew has
had multiple surgeries but always remains strong and optimistic. He is very outgoing and is very competitive. As a mom I
have tried several times to find sports and activities that he could do. Recently I went on the mission to find a sport again,
when I can across Special Olympics. I wasn't sure that he would be able to join Special Olympics at the time but figured I
would try anyways. I got to looking at the schedules and discussed the basketball with Andrew and his father, Earl. Andrew
stated that he would like to try it, so I contacted Special Olympics in Seminole County the next day. Andrew started the
basketball skills that weekend. Everyone was so nice and was a great help. Andrew started improving in school and
checks his schedules every Saturday to plan for the next practice. This has helped his confidence level and his self-
esteem. As a parent I am grateful that this is available for children like Andrew. The coaches are wonderful, they take the
time to help the children. Andrew has role models that treat him normal, like any other children. They are really amazing.
Now that Basketball is over Andrew has joined Bocce. I think we are all going to be busy for a while. Thank you so much
from the bottom of our hearts for bringing our family closer. - The Lytle Family
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January 2009
Amanda Petruzeli - Equestrian
"In Amanda's role as an assistant coach/volunteer, she is in charge of providing each horse with the proper equipment
and grooming tools and also ensures the equipment is returned to the tack room and stored away properly. She leads the
class in their warm up exercises and has created several trail courses for our athletes to practice.
Amanda is also an active athlete participating in speed events, trail and equitation. Amanda will be the 1st Seminole
County equestrian athlete to participate in the 2 person unified drill team event at the Equestrian Area Games in March.
Amanda enjoys riding and has a willing partner in her 4 legged teammate, Forrest Gump.
I can depend on Amanda to assist in any way she can, and I am proud and thankful to have such a caring, giving
athlete/volunteer/assistant coach. "
Coach Elise
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December 2008
Scott Johnson - Swimming, Basketball, Bowling
Scott graduated from Edgewater High School , participated in the transition program at UCF and some of his friends from
school are now involved with him in Special Olympics. When Scott is involved in something he gives it an overwhelming
enthusiasm (as anyone who has heard him cheer and yell knows!). He has been part of the bowling team for several
years, was part of the swim team last season and is now on the basketball team. Scott can't wait for Saturday for his
practices and Mondays for bowling. He loves being a part of Special Olympics and is also a real cheerleader for his
friends!
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November 2008
Alicia Cepero - Gymnastics and Swimming, Bowling, Track and Field and skating
As told by Alicia in her own words.... Hi, my name is Alicia Cepero. I graduated from Lake Howell High School in 1995. I
have been in Special Olympics since I was 5 years old in Long Island,NY. I have competed in roller skating, bowling, track
and field, swimming, gymnastics, and cheerleading. I have a lot of medals and trophies. I just won 3 gold medals in
gymnastics last week. I love to dance. I was one of the Altamonte Springs Special Allemanders for over 10 years. I am
also one of the performers in Angels Among Us at Mary Magdalen Catholic Church. I am learning to tap dance. I love to
go camping, canoeing, hiking and swimming I have two brothers and a sister.
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October 2008
Sorrell Family - Greg, Karen, Ashlyn and Emily (athlete)
This is our first year with Special Olympics and our daughter Emily (who is 10 years old) participated in swimming. Her dad
Greg and sister Ashlyn have both helped with coaching this year and with lots of practice and persistence Emily qualified
for state games in Vero Beach, Fl and won to bring home a gold medal in the 10m assisted event. Not too bad considering
she was not able to swim prior to 6 months ago! Way to go Emily!
I (Karen) am on the management team now, along with my friend Andra Fryer, and we hope to help with events this year
and future fundraisers. Andra's son Michael is also an athlete and is a great mentor to Emily and helps to keep her going
(even when she is having a tough time with practice). They have friendly competition with each other and both Andra and I
plan to keep Emily and Michael participating in many upcoming events. Soccer will most likely be Emily's next sport as she
loves to run and kick the ball.
Many thanks to everyone who has been so supportive to our family (particularly to my parents Al and Kay) who have been
there at every practice and also made the trip to state games to watch their granddaughter compete!
Special Olympics has given our family a very much needed positive experience in the community and Emily is having a
blast! This is a great chance for Emily to actually grow up with Special Olympics and she how she does now and several
years from now.
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September 2009
Karen, Clara, Cally and Cody (athlete) - Gymnastics
Cody and I are pretty new to Special Olympics. She just started her first sport, gymnastics, this season...and she LOVES
it!!!! She can't wait each week to go to class and see her coaches and all the new friends she has made. She loves sports
and it is so wonderful to see her grow and experience new things. I decided on week number two to become an assistant
coach. I already new in my heart that the rewards would be many. We feel like we have become part of a big, happy,
loving, family. Everyone is so nice!!! Since we started just a short time ago, my oldest daughter Cally has joined in the fun
as a volunteer, and my twelve year old daughter Clara will be joining us as well.
Our prayer is that any one of us might make a small difference in the life of one of the athletes, they sure make a
difference in ours!! Thank You Special Olympics, Cody, Karen, Cally ,Clara :)
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August 2008
Rebekah Doyle was born on 11/8/96 to Joseph & Mary Doyle.
Rebekah has a list of things that she enjoys to do. If it is dancing with her dance team the Sparklers or painting with her niece
Brooke she is always doing something fun & exciting. This summer she has been busy with Track & Field and Swimming where
she won a first place ribbon in her event. Rebekah had her last birthday party at the bowling alley and that was when she told
everyone she wanted to join a bowling team and that is just what she will be doing in the next few weeks.
Since being involved in the Special Olympics Rebekah & her family have been given the opportunity to be in some many
different and wonderful activies.
She has been in the Macy’s X-mas Parade at Universal, she has cheered for the Orlando Magic opening games, and has
traveled to many competitions with her dance team. We as a family have grown as we experience all these wonderful things that
Rebekah has given us the privilege in expericaning with her.
Before she was a quite & shy young lady, now she has blossomed into a bright flower that lights up any room she enters. It is not
uncommon for our family to go to an event and not have at least a handful of people stop to say hi to her before we even enter
the building. That to me is pretty AWESOME to be so loved and known by all.
We look forward to the many years that we will have the privilege in sharing with the Special Olympics families and continue to
grow as one big family.
July 2008
Trenten and I moved to Seminole county in June of 2005 to be closer to my Mom and family. We moved from Alabama where
they do not have many of the opportunities for Trenten to play sports as we do here in Florida. They only had track one day a
year during school and I used to drive him 45 miles to Birmingham during the Fall and Spring so that he could play baseball in
the challenger league. As you can imagine I was so excited when we moved here and I found out that Trenten could play sports
year around. Trenten enjoys playing sports, any sport, so much that we are doing something almost every weekend. He has run
track and basketball and soccer skills and swimming and the list goes on and on. He even went to state in swimming and soccer.
I am so proud of him. We have both gotten so much from this experience. I have also become more involved and I love it too. I
started getting more involved due to the fact that Trenten is a runner (and he is fast, those who know Trenten know exactly what
I mean. LOL). I now volunteer in many of the sports that he plays and I too have made many friends through the practices,
events and trips. Being involved with the Special Olympics, both the people who run it and the athletes and families we are
involved with has enhanced my life more that I could have ever imagined. I would like to say Thank You to all of you from both
Trenten and myself. I hope you know how much you are loved and appreciated. We have both learned so much from all of you.
Everyone is so special and I love helping as much as I can. I really enjoy the friendships that I have made and the excitement of
being around all the athletes and their families. Just the pure love and happiness from being around everyone makes you feel so
happy, lucky and blessed, all at the same time. Trenten is so happy, even if he doesn't win, it's O.K. because he had fun and got
the chance to do his best. I have learned so much from Trenten, especially patience but also not to worry so much about what
other people say or do. Just be who you are and smile even when others dont'. You may be suprised sometimes they will even
smile back just because you smiled first.
June 2008
James Caldwell will be 23 at the end of this month and has been involved with Special Olympics for about 10 years. He was
involved with Orange County Equestrian for many years...and won silver and bronze in Barrell Racing at the State Games! He is
currently involved in bowling and is looking forward to starting in powerlifting...and already is talking about lifting a more than his
Dad can! Besides participating in Special Olympics, James is an accomplished Boy Scout, and with only 3 levels to go to be an
Eagle Scout! and is looking forward to attending college in the fall! Oh, and ask why he does Special Olympics....he'll tell you.." I
love it"!
May 2008
LoPorto Family
Our family has been involved with Special Olympics for about 7 years. Our very own Special Olympiad, Jimmy, has played
several sports over the years. He is now playing golf, swimming and, his new favorite, power lifting. What a thrill it was to see
Jimmy earn a bronze medal at the power lifting state games in November 2007.
Coach “Daddy” Sal has been a swim coach from the start and last year started his golf coaching career. He helps out at power
lifting and also finds time to be involved with the management team. He loves to play games and is the annual picnic’s balloon
toss organizer. Go Coach Sal!
Our daughter, Maria, began her Special Olympic career by volunteering at swimming to earn community service hours. She had
so much fun that she has continued to volunteer and has added gymnastics to her coaching list. Maria is also a Radio Disney
kidcaster and has arranged radio broadcasts to inform the community about Special Olympics.
My involvement with Special Olympics has always been as the mother who makes sure that everyone gets where they need to be
at the right time. This past year I was very interested in the power lifting athletes and decided to join the management team
because I love helping such a dedicated group of individuals who have given so much to help all the wonderful, Special
Olympiads in Seminole county. Because I happen to be married to Coach Sal, I have become the administrative (in other words -
secretary) golf coach this season.
Special Olympics is a very big part of our lives and for good reason. They have given Jimmy the chance to go out and be the
best that he can be and have fun at the same time. The coaches, volunteers and athletes are such a big, happy family. We feel
blessed to be a part of this very special organization.
April 2008
Hi my name is Apryl Hankerson I'm 25 years old. This is my first year being apart of the 2008 Special Oylmpics Team. I enjoy
running track and playing basketball. I am a part of the Basketball Team for Special Oylmpics as well. In my spare time I enjoy
going to work at Swop with my friends and going to the park to shoot hoops with Sabrina and visiting my family.
March 2008
My Name is Tracy Barry, I am 24 years old and have Down Syndrome and Diabetes. I also am vision and hearing impaired. I am
involved in Bowling, Tennis and Cheerleading. I love Special Olympics as it has inspired me to do all that i can do. I give it my all
and it makes me smile when i see that other are proud of me too. Most of all I am very proud of myself for the accomplishment
that i have made. My family is very proud of me. My dad passed away 11 years ago. So it left it up to my mom and my sister to do
the hard work. They have worked with me so much and helped me get to where i am today.
I look forward to my practices all week. On Monday's I go Bowling, on Saturday's I have Tennis, and on Sunday's i have
cheerleading. When i am not with Special Olympics my sister take me to our tennis court and we practice together. So that i can
get better at Tennis. I love it when we go to competitions. Being involved in Special Olympics as inspired me to do things that I
love. Being involved in all these sports and activities has helped me in my battle of losing weight.
Thanks to all my Family, Coaches, Volunteers, Friends who have supported me. You all play a big role in My Life.
February 2008
Entering her 5th season of participation as a member of Seminole County’s Equestrian Team, C.H.E.E.R., Maggie is more
enthusiastic than ever. She has grown steadily in both responsibility and equestrian skills under the compassionate supervision
of Coach Elise Hulme. Maggie values the friendship of her teammates and always looks forward to interacting with the C.H.E.E.
R. volunteers, whether at practice or at the competitions. Music is a huge part of Maggie’s life. She shares her vocal gift with
anyone who will listen, including the horses. The Special Olympics experience has been very motivational for Maggie. The
prospect of receiving ribbons, medals and trophies initially compelled her, but gradually she has grown to appreciate her
progress in riding fundamentals. She has begun to respond to her coach’s direction, and relate her actions as effective better
communication with the horse.
Last spring she qualified to participate in the 2007 State Equestrian Games in Tampa. She was honored with the opportunity to
recite the athlete oath at the opening ceremonies, which aptly sums up what has come to be her own view of participation. “Let
me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt”.
January 2008
The Badders Family (along with the Lundy's!) has been involved with Special Olympics Seminole County one way or another for
about 20 years. Bonnie and Mike moved to Lake Mary from Jacksonville and immediately began participating as a volunteer and
athlete. Mike has played almost all the sports available, including golf, basketball, powerlifting, softball, bocce, athletics,
volleyball, and snow skiing! He loves the practices and the competitions...and the socializing, of course! He has just been elected
president of the Athlete Input Council and is excited about the upcoming meetings and activities. Dani Lundy, Mike's sister,
moved to Altamonte Springs from Jacksonville and volunteered to join the Management Team and be a bocce coach. She had
never heard of bocce but joined in with the athletes' enthusiasm and has become passionate about "her" bocce bunch. Dani's
younger son, Jay, is a volunteer and helped out with the practices. Dani's older son, Joe Badders, moved to Seminole County in
2006 and soon volunteered to participate as a Unified Partner in volleyball and as a basketball coach. Joe is starting another
year of involvement and is very popular with the athletes. Special Olympics has always been a big part of the Badders/Lundy
family...the newest volunteer is nine-year-old Amanda! She has helped out with powerlifting and is looking forward to doing more.
"Mike is the center and focus of our lives...he knows how to have fun and has taught us to be thankful for our blessings, and one
of them is Special Olympics." - Dani Lundy
December 2007
Tammy Schlier is a 19 year old Special Olympian who attends Winter Springs High School. She enjoys a wide variety of actitities
including arts and crafts, jigsaw purzzles (preferably 1,000 piece puzzles), beads and word search puzzles. Tammy also loves to
dance and participate in sports. She is active in horse back riding, swimming, cheer leading, gymnastics, belly dancing,
basketball, baseball, and bowling .
Special Olympics has provided many opportunities for Tammy to learn a wide variety of sports and participate in competitions.
For instance within the last year, she has been able to try out some new sports including power lifting, tennis and basket ball.
She thoroughly enjoys them all. Tammy began her journey with Special Olympics when she was in grade school. Her first sport
was gymnastics followed by horse back riding and swimming. She now participates in a variety of sports. She loves to compete
and recently won one gold and two silver medals for her gymnastic performance at the State Games at Disney this year.
The Special Olympics program has provide Tammy with much more than fun activities. The sports have helped improve her
coordination,ability to follow directions and social skills.Over the years, Tammy’s autisim has made it difficult for her to
participate in activities and make friends. Special Olympics has helped Tammy to improve her socialization skills. For instance
according to her teacher, last year Tammy would not tolerate anyone sitting next to her at lunch. That has changed this year and
she does not mind if other students sit next to her. I am sure that her activies with Special Olympics and the Altamonte Springs
Special Needs program played an important role in that transformation.
The Schlier family would like to take this opportunity to say “thank you” to all Tammy’s coaches and the volunteers. You have
been a postive influence in her life and the lives of all involved with the Seminole County Special Olympics program. We
sincerely appreciate your dedication and and caring attitude.
November 2007
"My name is julie jones. I was born with learning disiabily do to having no oxyen. i plyed basket ball in middle school i went to lake
may high. my mom push me in school. i play softball for the special olmpics. i have been playing for 10 years. i join the special
olmpics so i can meet differient people i have fun when i am playing sports. my dad died when i was young so my mom took care
of me. she had to do it all. i work for the volusia county schools. i been there for 5 years. i live on my own and i am getting
married June 2008 to my high school sweet heart. thanks julie jones"
October 2007
Mitchell Omana
Mitch was diagnosed with Developmental Delay and possible Autism at the age of 22 months. We were told that Mitch would
probably not develop Physically and Mentally like those of his peers. Mitch has defied those words. We believe that early
intervention is the key to his success. Mitch started at UCP of Central Florida on his 2nd Birthday and has excelled in everything
he does since.
Mitch joined the Seminole County Special Olympics Swim Team last year and won 1st and 2nd place in both the County and
Area Games. This year, he made it all the way to the State Games where he won 2 Silver Metals. Mitch loves swimming for
Special Olympics and will be joining the Basketball team as well as the Track and Field team. He has made friends with several of
the Athletes. Mitch's confidence has soared since becoming an Athlete with Special Olympics.
Mitch is in 2nd grade and is in regular classes. He enjoys Math and History.
In his spare time he reads the Captain Underpants collection, plays Nintendo WII and studies Airplanes and Presidential History.
Mitch is famous for his amusing sayings (usually about his father) and keeps the Coaches in stitches. As Mitch puts it Special
Olympics is "Awesome truly awesome"!
September 2007
Dustin Paramore- Golf, Swimming, Basketball, Powerlifting
Dustin is a young man who is quiet, somewhat shy but happy most of the time. Dustin is considered someone who is very easy
going. His calm temperament is one of his strengths. He enjoys being active in the community. He has been a participant in
Challenger Baseball and Football. He enjoys horse backing riding, bowling, singing and table games. This is his first year with
SO and he has attempted volleyball, basketball, swimming, power lifting and golf. He seems to enjoy them all. His biggest
challenge thus far has been his first swim meet, everything seemed to be “super sized”, the pool, the distance, the depth, and
the calm with which everyone moved forward. What an experience!!! Dustin was a bit reluctant to take on the challenge but with
the cheering and support of all the athletes, his peers and Coaches Doreen and Kevin, he finished the task. Dustin’s family just
wants him to remember that with SO and all journeys “never focus on the outcome but the journey and sense of
accomplishment”. His family hopes the bar will never be so low he meets it but so high that he continues to try. The sincerity that
is shown by every volunteer, coach and parent that share in the growth experience of these athletes is amazing. He wants to
thank everyone who has given just little part of themselves to help move him forward on path of growth and accomplishment.
August 2007
Joe B. Nasehi- Equestrain and Swimming
Joe began his participation in SOSC while attending FSDB in St.Augustine with Coach Elyse Hulme's Equestrian Team, and has
garnered many ribbons & medals including Gold at State. Elyse & Larry Levine have been great encourager's and now Kevin &
the other swimmers are broadening his interests - thank you all so much. He also enjoys his fellow performers in the Angels
productions where he is a drummer. During the day he works at Quest, and shares a Supported Living apartment with
roommate Darryl. Despite being totally blind, he has actually driven an 18wheeler -ask him how that happened.
July 2007
James Jamrok – Basketball, Volleyball and Swimming
James has participated in Special Olympics since 1985. He enjoys most all sports especially Basketball, Volleyball, and
Swimming. James has gone to the State Games on several occasions wining 8 gold medals in Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, and
Softball. Also, James has won 6 silver medals in Soccer, Volleyball, and Swimming. James loves to be competitive in all sports.
James has had the privilege of carrying the torch on December 7, 2001 representing Special Olympics in Daytona Beach, FL.
James loves Special Olympics and working for Albertson’s. Both have given him numerous opportunities and skills. We thank so
many people from early years to the present for their patience, support, time, and dedication
June 2007
Julie and Becky have been participating in Special Olympics since they were in elementary school! Throughout the years they
have participated in a number of sports including horseback riding, track and field, gymnastics, bowling, basketball, and
swimming. Many people think they are twins, but they are actually 18 months apart in age! They enjoy the camaraderie of
meeting their friends at practices and traveling to different cities for regional and state games. Julie and Becky also love the
many activities that are sponsored by the City of Altamonte Springs Recreation. The monthly dances, STOP program, and
Monday bowling league are truly the highlights of their month! We know that there are many, many hours of behind-the-scenes
hard work to make all these events such a success and we truly appreciate it. We would like to take this opportunity to thank
each and every coach who has devoted many hours in training and mentoring to my daughters and all their peers. Coach
Kevin, thank you for your kindness and patience. Nin, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything you do. -Love,
Julie and Becky Wenzel and Mom, Nancy
May 2007
George Gibson – Tennis, Volleyball, Basketball and Golf
George has been going to Special Olympics since 1990. He loves all kinds of sports including tennis, golf and volleyball. When
they started up basketball as a sport he wanted to play. Debbie Taylor was coach then. She did a good job as we all know, as
there were only a few coaches then. George needs Special Olympics very much! Last summer, he had the opportunity to play
golf at the National Games. George really enjoyed taking the plane ride too! As well, he loves to square dance and enjoys
participating in the many activities offered through Altamonte Springs. George and I would like to thank all the coaches for their
time out of their own lives and for being so good to George over the years – God Bless You All! -George Gibson and
his Mother
April 2007
Emily Funaro - Equestrian
Emily achieved one of her goals when she turned the big 18 on March 28th. You see Emily has two older sisters who she looks
up to with great pride. Although she is the little sister they look up to her as well. Her successes and achievements are theirs.
Emily began participating with Special Olympics when we moved here from Connecticut ten years ago. It has continued to be a
very important part of her life. First came swimming. We’ll never forget her 1st event when she insisted on swimming the
complete lap instead of exiting the pool at one end. She was”looking for the stairs”. More recently Special Olympics
Cheerleading has fulfilled her love of dance and performance. She loves music of all kinds and is a natural ham. We are very
thankful to Nin for her tremendous job initiating this dynamic program and we hope it’s here to stay! The Equestrian program has
allowed Emily to express her love for animals. Coach Elise has been very instrumental in helping Emily to work harder and do
her best. This past weekend some of that hard work paid off when Emily won her first blue ribbon at an Equestrian event at the
Silver Spurs Arena. Throughout her experiences with Special Olympics all of her coaches and assistants have been incredible.
We’ve never met such warm, caring and devoted individuals. A big thank you to all who choose to become involved. The Special
Olympics program has allowed Emily to thrive and blossom into the beautiful young woman she has become. We can’t imagine
her life without it or the lifelong friends she has made along the way.
March 2007
Mike Scrimenti
Michael started his sports life when he was 7 playing soccer with the Lincroft, NJ soccer teams, then he played basketball and
started swimming in competition with the local YMCA team. He started swimming with Special Olympics when he was a teenager
and was a gold-medalist at state level in NJ. He also enjoyed bowling and track and field in NJ. When we moved here 10 years
ago, he started playing volleyball, then track and field and basketball. He was on the softball team for many years and they won
a state title a few years ago. Last year he got back into swimming and did very well. Sports are very important to Michael. He
enjoys watching sports on TV and chatting about almost any sport. He reads the sports page in the paper.
Michael loves Special Olympics and the friends that he has made. He truly loves the coaches that give their precious time to
work with these athletes. His family is very grateful to the Special Olympics programs and all the coaches and the behind the
scenes people that make it happen. We are very proud of Michael and all the athletes.
February 2007
Brett Jones considers himself to be a rapper and a star. Others have referred to him as a storyteller, an event coordinator, and
the PR person for Walt Disney World. If possible, Brett would be at Walt Disney World every day. He has to be reminded that
his dad only works there and does not own the company.
He is very active, sociable, talkative, and enjoys being the center of attention. With these characteristics, he does well with the
various activities offered by Special Olympics. He has participated in basketball, golf, swimming, volleyball, powerlifting, bowling,
and much to his dad’s dismay, cheerleading and bellydancing.
Brett is also involved in the Angels Among Us program offered at St. Mary Magdalen Church. Aside from the physical aspects of
Special Olympics, Brett is learning to build and grow relationships, and the importance of teamwork. We are thankful for each
coach, volunteer, parent, and athlete that give of their time, and have shown kindness, patience and proper guidance. God
Bless You All!
January 2007
My name is Eden Fulmer. I don’t know anyone else named Eden. Like my name I’m “one of a kind.” I like my name, but most
of all I like being me. I love people. I have more friends than I can count.
Special Olympics gives me the opportunity to be with friends. When I walk into a practice or event, I feel like glowing. I see
friends, volunteers, and coaches. They smile and high-five me. I can’t wait to hug and high-five them back. There’s nothing as
wonderful as friends. People ask me if I have ever met a stranger. In my life, there are no strangers, just friendships waiting to
happen.
Currently, I am a Sparkler cheerleader. I dream about being Cinderella and a cheerleader. Being a Sparkler cheerleader is a
dream-come-true. My favorite videos are about cheerleaders, cheerleading competition, and Cinderella. We won a gigantic
trophy in the CheerSport competition in Jacksonville. “Sparkler” is a great name for our squad because that’s just what we do.
We sparkle. Just look at the audience, they’re grinning so much they cry.
For me Special Olympics is about friends and the team spirit more than it is about competition or sports. I love being a team
member. I’m on the swim team. The exercise is great. Like lots of other people, I battle with my weight. Special Olympics is fun
and helps keep me in shape at the same time. My birthday is in June. My friends from the Special Olympics swim team came to
my 21st birthday pool party. Even the coaches and volunteers came to my party. Coaches and volunteers are really special.
In addition to Special Olympics, I like going to theme parks, especially Disney. Did I tell you I like Cinderella? My favorite gift is an
annual pass to Disney or Sea World. I started going to theme parks independently when I was 12 years old. At first, my mom
would bring a book, find a shady spot to sit and read. I would see my favorite shows and ride my favorite rides over and over
again. Then I would find her when I was hungry or tired. Later my mom or dad would drop me off and pick me up from the theme
parks. It wasn’t long before I could ride Lynx bus to the theme parks by myself. My career goal is to work at Disney as a cast
member. Maybe I can be Cinderella. If not at Disney, then I’d like to work at Sea World.
I graduated from Morning Star School in 2004. I am a student at Winnie Palmer Hospital as part of an Orange County Public
School Transition Program. I am learning to restock and re-supply the food service area where hospital staff and visitors eat. I
volunteered more than 200 hours at the hospital during the summer riding Lynx bus to my volunteer job. On Lynx buses, I can
transfers and go anywhere I want to go in Orange, Seminole, and Osceola counties.
November 2006
Pamela Lorraine Scribner AKA “Pammy” was born on 4/20/88. As with many of our kids, Pammy was quite a surprise. Pam
started Special Olympics at 10 years old, and soon mastered soccer skills. As Pam grew she was ready for basketball! Bouncing
was not bad, but dribbling was tough. As a parent and concerned coach I felt the best training method was to smile and laugh.
Pamela has completed in soccer, basketball, swimming, and cheerleading. All of this activity, all of these early Saturday
mornings are possible, due to the tireless efforts of coaches, volunteers and generous facilities for Seminole County Special
Olympics. My thanks and praise go to each person involved who gives of their time, and talent. These individuals that spend
much time planning, attending trainings and meetings even before they your athlete on the court, or track or pool. They all
deserve our admiration, and thanks. Pamela has made friends that extend beyond the Saturday morning practices. She has
used the skill, and strength, and coordination many times outside of the Sports arena. It is exciting to watch Pamela reach
beyond what she thinks is her limit, to take the chance, fail or succeed. Pamela has decided to continue Special Olympics until
she can decorate all of her walls with ribbons and medals, and Doreen and I will be there for all the attempts!
October 2006
Mitchell met most of his developmental milestones until about age 17 months and then things began to change. He started
banging his head, he was more sensitive to loud noises and crowds, he stopped saying the few words he could say and most
significant he would make this bone chilling primal noise. At the age of 22 months my husband and I were concerned about the
changes in Mitch and his lack of verbal communication so we had him tested for speech therapy. Much to our surprise Mitch was
diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Delay and possible Autism.
Mitchell met most of his developmental milestones until about age 17 months and then things began to change. He started
banging his head, he was more sensitive to loud noises and crowds, he stopped saying the few words he could say and most
significant he would make this bone chilling primal noise. At the age of 22 months my husband and I were concerned about the
changes in Mitch and his lack of verbal communication so we had him tested for speech therapy. Much to our surprise Mitch was
diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Delay and possible Autism.
We were told that it was unlikely that Mitch would be able to participate in sports and his academic future was questionable. We
knew that our child would make a mark in this world regardless of the professional prognosis. We were determined that he would
overcome this obstacle. I took a leave of absence from my job to seek out services for Mitch. On Mitch’s 2nd Birthday he started
the inclusion program at UCP Child Development Center in Seminole County. UCP was a god send to us, John and I are firm
believers in early intervention. His day consisted of receiving Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy along with academics.
Mitch made great strides with the help of the exceptional team at UCP. Mitch graduated from UCP at age 5 and went on to be
included in a typical Kindergarten class. Mitch struggled through the year in a typical classroom setting. During that year it
became more evident that Mitch needed more than Speech and Occupational Therapy. After much frustration we discovered
The UCF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD). Dr. Terri Daley understood our frustration and walked us through
the whole process for children with Autism. Without CARD I don’t know where Mitch would be at today. He had a good foundation
from UCP but the next links were missing. CARD helped us find the missing links. In April 2005 Mitch was diagnosed with Autism
Spectrum Disorder. Mitch then qualified for Autistic services through the school board. In August 2005, Mitch started classes at
Lake Mary Elementary in the Autistic program. Mrs. Deborah Aman and her assistants Debbie and Esci worked magic on our
child. He was above grade level or on grade level in all of his school work. In March of last year he was placed in a typical
classroom and continues to excel in school. He is still on or above grade level in all subjects.
In April 2006, we met Kevin Lajeunesse from Seminole County Special Olympics at the Kids Day at the Seminole YMCA, and he
persuaded us to have Mitch join the swim team. Mitch had always loved the water but was afraid of large commercial pools
therefore we decided to build a pool at our home. In March, Mitch began to learn how to swim. In April he was swimming and in
May he started practicing with the Special Olympics Swim Team. In July he won 1st and 2nd place for the 4 man relay and the 25
meter freestyle races respectively at the Seminole Swim Meet. In September he won 1st place at the Area Games for the 25
meter freestyle race. Special Olympics has given Mitch a new found self confidence that is found in most athletes.
He continues to thrive in both academics and swimming. He is looking forward to swimming next spring with Special Olympics and
possibly joining the Sparklers in the interim. Mitch has also been helping to teach his little sister how to swim so they can practice
together. Today he was working with her on her back stroke and butterfly. Mitchell’s determination and spirit have definitely been
an inspiration to our family. Words cannot describe how proud we are of him. -Juan and Michelle Omana
September 2006
Hello! I’m Meggan and with some help from my Mom, I’m pleased to tell you about myself and how Special Olympics has made a
difference in my life. I’m a third generation native Floridian, born right here in Orlando in 1980. I attended school at Central
Florida Christian Academy, but school wasn’t easy for me. I was shy, with no friends, but I always tried to have a sunny smile,
work very hard and give 110% to everything I did. At graduation ceremonies I received a Special Achievement Award and the
teachers gave each senior a special word dedicated to their character. My word was Perseverance!
I’ve enjoyed volunteering with many good programs. On weekends at Horses for the Handicapped in Lake County, I would walk
beside a horse holding someone in the saddle so they could experience horseback riding. I’ve served Thanksgiving Dinner at
the Salvation Army and helped feed the homeless on Saturdays at a local church. Because I love animals, I’ve helped find
homes for abandoned kittens and puppies at adoption events for the South Lake Animal League. I have a “herd” of cats myself,
and it’s my job to keep them fed, watered and playful! I’ve also helped out at Canine Companions for Independence.
My start in Special Olympics was inspired by Sir Timothy, the Knight from Medieval Times who performed at the U.C.F. games
each Saturday. I wanted to ride like him, so I joined the Equestrian Program. I rode Western style at first because it was easier,
then I rode English. Although I was always nervous in competition, I got some ribbons, then silver and gold at State...but I still had
trouble relaxing and enjoying myself. I was not going to compete again. Then we heard about the swimming program in Seminole
County. I met Larry Levine and his “family” of great people. They welcomed me in and I participated, but was still very shy. Even
though my name was drawn to go to State that first year, I remembered the nerves and tension of the past and did not have
enough confidence to compete. Although nobody could talk me into it, no one got upset. They just accepted me and continued
to encourage me. Eventually I began to feel more comfortable and participated in more events. I made lots of friends and my
confidence grew. I was finally able to compete again! I have participated in Aquatics, Power Lifting, and Bowling Then there is my
new love…Gymnastics. And my biggest dream has come true…I am a competition Cheerleader! I wish the kids from my school
could see me now. All the wonderful coaches, volunteers and families involved me in the many other activities of the Altamonte
Special Population I love all of it, including the fun field trips, square dancing, Troupe Moumayaza and those crazy costumed
Nightbird dances. I’ve made so many friends through Special Olympics. My lonely days are over! I’m also involved in “Angels
Among Us”, a unique and very talented group of special theater performers who raise money for local charities. Working with the
Angels and Cheerleading has really boosted my self esteem. I’m no longer nervous performing in front of people and now I
actually enjoy it !
In Special Olympics it’s not being first that’s so important. When a really great swimmer beat me last year at State, my Mom took
a picture of me leaning up from my 2nd place step giving her a big hug. Then we grabbed the third place winner and hugged
her, too. We all had gigantic smiles! That’s what Special Olympics is all about.
What is Special Olympics to me? Well…training, practice, dedication, good exercise, hard work and Perseverance! Yeah…but
the BEST part is feeling good about yourself and the fun, friendship, laughter, love, hugs and smiles that come from being with
people you like and who like you right back! -Love, Meggan
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