Jason is not counting his gold medals—but he’s won “a lot,” he said. Including one this past summer, on the soccer field.

“Now it’s softball season,” he said. “I play second base and outfield. No one really hits the ball that far, but you gotta be ready.”

For the last two decades, Jason has participated in almost every season of the Special Olympics program at Ability Beyond—one of the largest in the state, serving more than 150 athletes.

“Athletes of all abilities are welcome on our teams, regardless of whether they’re involved in our other programs,” said Lisa Hoadley, our Special Olympics Local Coordinator.

A Community of Athletes

Through the Special Olympics program, athletes like Jason can choose from 12 different sports, and participate in year-round training. That includes weekly practice during each season, and quarterly Games, or medaled competitions.

As our athletes prepare for the Games, we support them with transportation; guidance on paperwork, training, and medical requirements; overall cheerleading; and even company on the field!

“Many staff volunteer their time to become coaches and partners (teammates without intellectual disabilities) in unified sports,” Lisa said. “We also have many volunteer coaches and partners from outside the organization. This fosters an inclusive community that’s working together on a common goal.”

In the end, there’s more to the Games than gold, silver, or bronze.

“The Special Olympics not only empowers athletes to develop skills and compete,” Lisa said, “but also build confidence, respect, and friendship.”

Running the Gamut

Jason’s first sport was running: outdoor track in high school, and road races with his mom, where he would help out behind the scenes. Today his favorite sport is basketball—and it’s no surprise why.

“I love all the running and exercise,” he said. “I get really competitive.”

Jason is a well-rounded athlete thanks to his own dedication and the Special Olympics program. In addition to his core sports of basketball, soccer, and softball, Jason has competed in swimming, bowling, and downhill skiing over the years.

One thing he’s learned: he can do whatever he sets his mind to.

“He is super motivated,” said Kelly Long, a new member of Jason’s care staff. “When it comes to athletics, and beyond, he is a dedicated team player.”

Off the Field

Sports have also taught Jason that it takes focus, persistence, and community to win gold. That wisdom comes in handy off the field. Especially now that Jason is striving for a milestone goal in his life: strengthening his literacy.

In the past few years, Jason has discovered a passion for theater through his involvement with the organization Sphere, landing roles in The Greatest Showman, as the narrator, and West Side Story, as a Shark.

In theater, reading scripts come with the territory—but wasn’t easy for Jason.

“I started at a first-grade reading level so it is hard, hell yeah, but I have already gone up,” he said. “This year I don’t need as much help.”

There’s another goal on the horizon for this gold-medal winner: getting his driver’s license. For now, Jason relies on his bike to get around, pedaling to work at the Danbury Fair Mall and Western Connecticut State University when he isn’t at softball practice.

“I like to move around,” he said.

Take Action

It’s through the generous support of the community and our donors that we’re able to provide our Special Olympics program to more than 150 athletes each year. Learn what you can do today to help.