- October 3, 2024
- DawnRatte
- No Comments
Meet Brianna Puglia!
What team do you participate on?
The Cranston Cyclones. I have been a member of this team for the past 5 years.
What sports do you compete in?
Bowling, Golf, Tennis, Soccer, Snowshoeing, and Croquet. Soccer is my favorite because it is a team sport and everyone in my family plays it.
Where did you go to school?
Toll Gate High School. I graduated in 2012.
Do you have a job? If so, tell us about it.
I work for SAS Retail Services. I am a vendor for local Stop & Shops. I’ve worked at SAS for 5 years as a vendor. My key responsibilities are coding the tags for store products and organizing the products on the shelf.
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
I chose to participate in ALU because I thought it would be a great way to be part of a community and learn more about Special Olympics. I also wanted to strengthen my leadership skills.
What have you accomplished through your involvement with ALU?
ALU helped me strengthen my leadership skills and gain confidence in writing speeches and presenting in front of others. It’s also given me an opportunity to represent Special Olympics and give back to this great organization. Recently, I spoke at Citizen’s Bank with my sister to recruit volunteers for a Special Olympics event and many people signed up to help our great cause.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
I enjoy watching and participating in theatre, going for walks, taking part in community activities, cooking, and spending time with friends, family, and my boyfriend, Chris.
Is there anything else about yourself that you would like to share?
I love going on cruises. I also love singing in my youth choir. I’ve had the opportunity to sing the National Anthem at a Paw Sox game, a hymn for the bishop, and a song at a wedding. I am also excited to share that I have been selected to participate in the snowshoe racing competition at the World Games in Turin, Italy in 2025, proudly representing the USA and SORI.
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!