Last weekend’s 2022 Fall Games consisted of teamwork, bravery, and goals accomplished – especially for team Opportunity House Athletics Thunder from Region A.

Team member, Lisa, says she was really hoping to win a gold medal alongside her team and her sister/coach, Shannon.

Having been involved in Special Olympics Illinois since the age of nine, Lisa has plenty of experience in both team and individual sports. She has participated in track, softball, swimming, soccer, bowling, basketball, and bocce, in addition to volleyball. After 27 years in this programming, Lisa says, “Special Olympics Illinois helps me make friends and stay active.”

Some of Lisa’s favorite things to do outside of Special Olympics Illinois include hanging out with friends, doing puzzles, working on word searches, and playing card games.

However, being on a team is something that Lisa finds meaning in. When asked what teamwork means to her, Lisa replied, “It means working together with my friends.” The best part about being on the Opportunity House Athletics Thunder team is “playing with my friends and my sister, Shannon, our coach,” she said.

Lisa and her team competed in the Modified Division 3 at 2022 Fall Games, and they worked together to earn first place.

Congratulations to Lisa and her team at Opportunity House Athletics Thunder, as well as all other athletes who participated in volleyball and equestrian in the 2022 Fall Games in Rockford.

Thank you to our coaches, volunteers, and sponsors who helped make it such a great weekend! View this year's results here.