- August 8, 2025
- DawnRatte
- No Comments
Meet Shaun Perez!
What team do you participate on?
I’ve participated on the Newport County YMCA Sharks team for eight years.
What sports do you compete in?
I compete in Bowling, Basketball, Soccer, Track, Traditional Basketball, Cycling, Volleyball, and Softball. My favorite is Traditional Basketball because it’s just us athletes on the court—and the season lasts longer than the others, which means more time to play the sport I love.
Where did you go to school?
I attended Rogers High School and graduated in 2020.
Do you have a job? If so, tell us about it.
Yes, I’ve been working as a Dietary Aide at Heatherwood Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for almost a year. My responsibilities include washing dishes, serving meals to residents, preparing desserts, and checking expiration dates. My favorite part of the job is getting to talk with the residents.
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
To get other individuals with intellectual disabilities involved with Special Olympics and to become a role model for my fellow athletes.
What have you accomplished through your involvement with ALU?
Through my involvement with ALU, I’ve gained motivational leadership skills, grown into a stronger leader, and proudly serve as an Athlete Spokesperson for Special Olympics Rhode Island. As part of that role, I’ve been interviewed by ABC 6 at this year’s Summer Games and took part in a ribbon cutting for a newly renovated Dunkin’ with other Class of 2025 ALU graduates.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
I enjoy playing video games, going out to eat, seeing movies, spending time outdoors with family and friends, and playing board games. My favorite board games are Monopoly, Apples to Apples, and Sorry Sliders. When it comes to outdoor activities, I love going to Newport Gulls baseball games, spending time at the beach, kayaking, making s’mores, swimming at my friend’s pool, mini golfing, and going to Topgolf.
Is there anything else about yourself that you would like to share?
Special Olympics has truly changed my life. It’s helped me meet new friends, inspire younger people to get involved, and stay active and healthy. It’s also given me a busy schedule and routine, helped me grow as a person, and taught me how to be more responsible.
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!