After weeks of practicing and training for this event, the young spirited athletes of the Special Olympics Hernando program made waves in a competition they have been longing to participate in.
The cancellation on July 25th due to bad weather put more determination and desire to compete into these swimmers. On August 1st they finally got their chance. Rhonda Coleman, Interim Director for the Special Olympics program in Hernando County was gleaming with pride for the accomplishments of her athletes. She knew how intense this day was for all the Hammerhead Swimmers and how much each and every one practiced to their fullest ability. She watched how they improved at every practice as well as how each one started building more self-esteem and strength.
“It was incredible; it was a wonderful morning, wonderful day,” Coleman said. The aquatic competition went over without one hiccup and the rain held off until the end of the awards ceremony. The winners were called and guided to the placement podiums to receive their ribbons. Each athlete raised their arms in excitement and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. Parents, family members and friends all gathered at this event and along with Hernando County’s Lt. Mike Burzumato.
“Any law enforcement or fire department (member) that can come out is huge… I am really excited to have him (Lt. Mike Burzumato) come out,” Coleman said. Lt. Mike Burzumato is familiar with the Special Olympics program. Over ten years ago, Burzumato was a member of the Sheriff’s Office swat team. His team was asked to run in the Special Olympics torch run, and every subsequent year he has continued to participate in this run. “It’s such a great feeling to come out; it’s an honor for me to be here. I appreciate everything that they have to go through with some of the challenges that they have to face and to come out here to excel in sports and activities what an amazing feat.” Burzumato said.When Burzumato walked around the corner, some of the Hammerhead swimmers knew exactly who he was. “Every time I get a chance to see them, give them a hug or a positive word of encouragement, I feel great.”
One extraordinary athlete who competed is 31 year old Joy Nolan, a Central High graduate who has faced numerous medical issues. Despite her condition, she has excelled in both swimming and bowling. She won the 50 meter breaststroke and 50 meter freestyle at the County meet and is looking forward to winning in the Area games in Dunedin on August 15th. Her goal is to win gold this year. For bowling she is preparing for county games on September 12th at Spring Hill Lanes. She won the gold medal for bowling last year and is seeking that prize once again.
Nolan also plays a big role within the Special Olympics organization, serving on the Athlete Input Council as Secretary. She explained, “Once I became Secretary I learned how much responsibility it was. I didn’t know how much I was taking on at first, but once I got so involved, I have learned so much. It’s been the best thing I’ve ever done and I love it. I wouldn’t give it up for anything.” She also described the camaraderie of her fellow athletes and volunteers. “It’s athletes in leadership. We learn to become a team, we’re like a family. We do a lot of volunteering. We go out into the community and get people interested in becoming an athlete or volunteer or become a coach for a sport.”
Later this month she will be training to become a global messenger with the Special Olympics. These individuals are essentially diplomats who spread the word about the benefits they have experienced through involvement in the Special Olympics program. “It’s just a great program to be involved with. I’m just so thankful for it,” Nolan said.
Hernando Sun and their contributors would like to congratulate the following Hammerhead Swimmers for completing in the Aquatics competition on August 1, 2015:
Alex, Blake, John, Nathan, Sara, Jimmy, Chase, Vincent, Allie, Bobby, Bob, Jeffrey, Elizabeth, Kyle, Emily, Joy, Amber and Robah.
For more information about upcoming events, competitions and to volunteer visit the Special Olympics Hernando website at: http://specialolympicsflorida.org/hernando/
