What team do you participate on?
I have been a member of the Trudeau Tigers since 2010.
What sports do you compete in?
I compete in golf, ten-pin bowling, unified and traditional basketball, and snowshoeing. Out of all the sports I play my favorite is golf for a couple of reasons. First, everyone in my family loves to either watch it or play it. Second, I truly believe that golf has opened many doors for me, whether through competing in the USA or World Games, or by bringing people in my community closer together and creating more unity.
Where did you go to school?
I graduated from Cranston West in 2009 and from the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) in 2014. At CCRI, I earned a certificate in hospitality and management which led me to my current job.
Do you have a job?
Yes, I work at Kings Crossing Golf Club in North Kingstown. I’ve worked there for 4 golf seasons as a starter and bartender. A starter in the golf definition is a person who either checks-in members or checks-in public golfers and helps with directions to the first tee or by providing beverages or snacks while they play golf. I love everything about my job!
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
I chose to be a part of Athlete Leadership because I felt like bringing my speaking talents forward and improving them, instead of just showing what I can do on the playing field.
What do you hope to accomplish as a result of your involvement with this program?
Since taking classes and graduating from ALU, I’ve gained confidence and received a lot of love and support from the community. As a result, I would like to pay that forward by becoming a Sargent Shriver messenger along with helping my fellow athletes find their voice no matter how big or small their voice may be.
With regard to how I’ve applied what I’ve learned from ALU, one of my most memorable moments was serving as the co-emcee with WPRI 12 news anchor Mike Montecalvo at this year’s Summer Games!
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
I enjoy playing golf when the weather is nice out along with spending time with my girlfriend Brianna and her family.
Is there anything else about yourself that you would like to share?
I hope for a world where people with and without intellectual disabilities can live together without any misconceptions or fear.
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!