- June 12, 2025
- DawnRatte
- No Comments
Meet Brady Pendergast!
What team do you participate on?
I participate on the Rhody Rangers team. I joined the team about 8 years ago.
What sports do you compete in?
I compete in Traditional, Unified, and 3X3 Basketball. I love getting to see and spend time with my friends and play the sport I enjoy the most. I also love that we all work hard as a team to try and win, and that we all encourage each other to do our best.
Where did you go to school?
I graduated from North Smithfield High School in 2019 and am currently attending CCRI part time.
Do you have a job? If so, tell us about it.
I work at Stop & Shop. I collect carriages, bag groceries, assist customers with bags, and return items to shelves.
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
I wanted to be more involved in athletics in Special Olympics. I also wanted to help other athletes and become a better speaker.
What have you accomplished through your involvement with ALU?
After all of the exercises I did in class and completing my Capstone project, I feel more confident when I speak and more prepared to continue in my role as a Unified Spokesperson. Presenting my Unified Alumni project to so many people who were unfamiliar to me helped me realize I can share important information with others. I feel like it’s my job to help people understand why Unified Sports is so important to us all.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
Playing basketball, watching sports on TV, traveling with my family, and going for walks.
How has Special Olympics Rhode Island changed your life?
Special Olympics has given me so many friends I wouldn’t have had otherwise. It gives me the chance to be active and play a sport I love with teammates who have become close friends. I have more confidence in myself now and feel better about who I am.
The Athlete Spotlight Series
The Athlete Spotlight series shines a light on remarkable individuals from Special Olympics Rhode Island who are either currently enrolled in or have successfully completed our Athlete Leadership University program. These inspiring athletes undergo comprehensive leadership training, acquiring both knowledge and skills. Through hands-on experiences in roles of responsibility, they collaborate with leaders who do not have intellectual or developmental disabilities, contributing to the development of inclusive environments. Join us in celebrating these dedicated individuals and their impactful journey within our community!