The idea of competing in a national tournament like the NCAA Final Four or the Super Bowl excites athletes and fans alike. It’s the same for Special Olympics athletes who will compete in the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games June 14-21 at various locations around Princeton, N.J. This is only the third USA Games in Special Olympics history and this year Crystal Lake’s Brent Kampert will be competing as part of Team Illinois.
Brent will be competing in the 100M & 200M Run, Long Jump, 4x100M Relay. He will also will also be competing in the Area 13 Spring Games this weekend at Lake Zurich High School.
On the Impact Special Olympics has had on his life, Brent says, “It is a great honor to represent Team Illinois.”
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“I like Special Olympics because it makes special needs people feel more included and connected and respected.”
Brent has been involved with Special Olympics Illinois for 16 years and also competes in basketball and softball. He was co-captain of his track team in high school (2005), was named Junior Male Athlete of the Year by Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association in 2001 and received Stephen McCluggage Memorial Spirit Award from NISRA in 2007.
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In spite of doctors’ predictions that Brent might never walk or talk, he became a gold medal sprinter and recently gave a speech before the McHenry County Board. Brent says Special Olympics has built his confidence and self-esteem, taught him leadership and sportsmanship, and helped him become more outgoing.
Three other athletes from Area 13 are also competing at the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games. Alex Dmytrenko of Gurnee will compete in aquatics, Peter Hill of Lincolnshire will compete in athletics and Jason Coy of Wildwood will compete in volleyball.
The Special Olympics Illinois Area 13 Opening Ceremonies begin at 9:00 a.m. and the Spring Games start at 10:00 a.m.
The public is encouraged wish Brent and his fellow Team Illinois athletes good luck and show their support on June 6 with the Special Olympics Illinois Virtual Sendoff. For more information visit the please visit facebook.com/specialolympicsillinois.
Want to get involved in Special Olympics Illinois? If you or someone you know is interested in becoming an athlete, volunteer or coach please visit www.soill.org!
