- November 8, 2024
- DawnRatte
- No Comments
Meet Ian Shepherd!
What team do you participate on?
I have competed on the Newport County YMCA Sharks team for 3 years, but I have been a Special Olympics Rhode Island athlete for 23 years. Before I joined the Sharks, I competed on the Special Olympics North Kingstown team for 20 years. This was before Newport County had a Special Olympics team.
What sports do you compete in?
Skiing, Basketball, Volleyball, Track, Softball, Golf, Soccer, Cycling, and Cornhole. Of these sports, Volleyball is my favorite because I enjoy serving and hitting the ball.
Where did you go to school?
I attended Rogers High School in Newport. I graduated in 2004.
Do you have a job? If so, tell us about it.
For the past 10 years, I have worked at Castle Hill Inn as a Facilitator Technician. My key job responsibilities are to police the grounds by picking up and emptying the trash, blow shells onto the driveways, stack firewood, wash windows, set up chairs for lighthouse weddings, and take care of any cleanup that is needed.
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
I wanted to take classes to help me become a better leader so I could teach other people how to be a leader.
What have you accomplished through your involvement with ALU?
I learned the material and can now teach other people what I learned in class. I also learned the skill of communicating to my team and coach. One example of how I applied this skill is when I suggested to my coach that one of our athletes, who has a very good voice, would make a terrific singer of the National Anthem for our State Summer Games. Our coach and athlete were pleased.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
I enjoy hiking, biking, gardening, beekeeping, skiing, swimming, and movies.
Is there anything else about yourself that you would like to share?
I live in my own apartment, and I live by myself. I’m funny. I love to hang out with my friends and family. I also like to learn a lot of new things.
Something I’m very excited about is being chosen to represent the United States for the 2025 World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. The sport I will compete in is Alpine Skiing. It is such an honor and privilege.
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!