All of us at Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) are incredibly proud to celebrate the recent achievement of one of our inspiring clients, Ryan. Ryan, a dedicated athlete with autism and a speech/language delay, has earned a silver medal in singles tennis at a Special Olympics tournament in Fountain Valley, CA! This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to Ryan’s hard work, perseverance, and the power of inclusive sports.
From Palm Desert to the Podium
Ryan’s tennis journey began eight years ago, at the age of 12, thanks to his grandmother in Palm Desert. Since then, he’s dedicated himself to the sport, practicing every week. When asked what helps him the most, Ryan emphasized the simple yet crucial factor: “The availability to be able to play and practice.” This highlights the importance of accessible and consistent opportunities for athletes of all abilities.
A Winning Attitude
Ryan’s excitement and pride in winning the silver medal shines through. This achievement has not only brought him personal joy but has also boosted his confidence on the court. Like many athletes, Ryan sometimes struggles with being too hard on himself during play. However, he’s developed effective coping mechanisms. Ryan shared: "I step back and take deep breaths, and my coach always helps me get through it too.” This demonstrates the importance of supportive coaching and self-regulation techniques in athletic success.
Facing a Familiar Foe
Ryan’s journey to the silver medal included a notable match against Paul, a 67-year-old competitor well-known within the Special Olympics Southern California community. This highlights the intergenerational aspect of the Special Olympics and the opportunities it provides for athletes of all ages to compete and connect.
More Than Just a Medal
Ryan’s silver medal represents more than just a win in a tennis match. It’s a symbol of:
Overcoming Challenges: Ryan’s dedication to tennis demonstrates his ability to overcome challenges associated with autism and speech/language delays.
The Power of Inclusion: The Special Olympics provides a platform for athletes with intellectual disabilities to showcase their talents, build confidence, and experience the joy of competition.
The Importance of Support: Ryan’s story underscores the crucial role of family, coaches, and organizations like TMI in empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.
Celebrating Ryan’s Success
Ryan is with the TMI Community Integration Training Program (CITP) which provides the support necessary to enable individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to participate fully in community life.
Ryan's CITP group volunteers at local businesses including Grocery Outlet, EQUU8 Horsemanship and Therapeutic Riding, Crosspoint Church, Cultivating Inclusion, Western Eagle Foundation, and Uptown Jungle.
"Ryan's dedication and thoroughness consistently impress, from hiding the stuffed kittens at Uptown Jungle for the toddlers hide and seek game to providing specialized care for horses at EQUU8 he is an asset" said TMI Direct Support Professional Marisela Mottola. "Ryan especially likes working with the horses at the EQUU8. He feeds the horses and prepares supplements for the elder horses. His willingness to learn, coupled with his friendly and helpful nature, makes him a wonderful part of our team."
We are immensely proud of Ryan’s accomplishments and are inspired by his dedication and resilience. We believe in creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive, and Ryan’s success story is a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work and support. Join us in congratulating Ryan on his well-deserved silver medal!
(Thank you to Marisela and TMI Associate Division Manager Ana Provido for contributing to this story and for helping Ryan to succeed!)
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Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and veterans with disabilities. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living Services and Family Support Services. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion. Please consider making a donation to assist us with transforming lives for many more years to come. We thank you in advance! Tax ID# 33-0185759
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