by lauryn | Mar 12, 2025 | Athletes, Families, Mission Focused, Region K, Sports, State Tournaments, Uncategorized
By Randy Kindred
Eric Baumann lives in the small southern Illinois town of Vienna, which he described this way: “It is 1,400 people or less. It has one stoplight, and the stoplight isn’t really a stoplight. It’s a blinking light.”
That said, Eric and his mother, Kathy Baumann, eagerly shine a light on Special Olympics throughout Illinois. They attend Special Olympics Illinois tournaments and events to provide information to families, answer questions and promote family engagement.
Saturday, they were behind the Families table at Normal Community High School as part of the Special Olympics Illinois State Basketball Tournament.
Eric Baumann, 41, has competed with Special Olympics Illinois since fourth grade. His mother was introduced to the organization at that time and soon grew to love it. She and her son have covered a lot of miles to share its benefits with families new to Special Olympics Illinois.
“Have wheels, will travel,” said Kathy Baumann, who also lives in Vienna. “Special Olympics Illinois Families have some new things on the horizon that they’re trying to do. Some of the outreach is that when new people come in, they have a partner and an established family member who can mentor them through the process. It is a learning process.”
She is quick to tell newcomers how Special Olympics Illinois “have made a tremendous difference in my life and in the life of my child.”
Eric Baumann still competes in “six or seven sports,” his mother said. He lives independently in Vienna and has a job in Carbondale, which is about a 45-minute drive. Eric drives himself to a federal building there and performs custodial work.
In Special Olympics Illinois, he is part of the Athlete Leadership team.
“Physically, he still competes, and that’s a wonderful thing,” Kathy Baumann said. “Leadership wise, he’s been given opportunities to speak, serve on the board of directors, serve on different committees. It’s opened doors for him to be a part of something much bigger than just competition.”
Through the Families network, the Baumanns encourage family members of Special Olympics Illinois athletes to get involved as volunteers, coaches and/or Unified partners. They discuss how important their engagement can be in enhancing the experience of the athletes.
It all means a great deal to Eric Baumann.
“I feel like helping others is my reward and just seeing them succeed is the best part,” he said. “And seeing the athletes grow. It brings joy and camaraderie. You see it all.”
Eric Baumann competes for the Big Muddy Crew, an agency headed by his mother.
“There are about 20 of us. We’re small but mighty,” Kathy said. “He (Eric) has been to Ireland, so I’ve traveled to Ireland. We’ve been to Nebraska, to Louisiana, to Florida, for the Illinois team and delegation and for my team. There are many, many doors if you choose to go through them.
“I think most families will tell you it’s the impact it (Special Olympics Illinois) has made on their child’s life. As a parent of a child with a disability, sometimes you try to even the playing field for them. Here, it’s an equal playing field.”
And, she said, the families network is eager to help.
“Somebody new coming in can reach out to me in southern Illinois and say, ‘Hey, I’d like to know about Special Olympics. What does it entail?’” she said. “I could go to the first practice with them and say here’s what you can expect. It’s really just helping them through that initial, ‘What have I walked into?’ ”
Learn more about the Special Olympics Illinois Families network.
Exciting Debut
The Belvidere BucThunder made its state tournament debut Saturday. The senior division team includes special needs athletes from Belvidere’s two high schools: Belvidere High and Belvidere North.
The BucThunder’s opening game came down to the final second. Belvidere took a 40-38 lead on a basket with 15 seconds left, then saw a shot by the Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) Wildcats bounce off the rim as the buzzer sounded.
“It was very stressful. But they held on and they did amazing,” said BucThunder coach Cori Wesselhoff. “They just show so much excitement and they’re so proud of themselves. They’ve worked very hard to get here.”
Afterward, the teams and the game officials posed for a group photo. Everyone smiled.
True “Winning”
The Weston Bridges Warriors out of Aurora hung on for a 35-32 semifinal win over the Winchester Area Special Olympics AlleyKatz. There was a sigh of relief for the Warriors’ Cameron Fawver, first-year head coach of the senior division team after two as an assistant.
Yet, for Fawver, “winning” is not tied to the final score of a game. It came earlier this season when the parent of a player shared what being on his team has meant.
“They said, ‘My child has had such a hard time making friends and building a community. This basketball team brings that community to their doorstop,’” Fawver said.
“Maybe they’re a little shy or something. This allows them to break out of that comfort zone and meet a whole bunch of people who are in the same boat as them and just want to have a good time.”
Fawver also has benefited.
“No matter what my day is like before I get here, everything stops at those gym doors and all I can focus on is: Is everyone having fun and are we trying our hardest?” he said. “I can stop worrying about my problems for a little bit and just focus on basketball, which I love to do.”
Click to view results and photos from the 2025 State Basketball Tournament.
by Kira Ryan | Mar 4, 2025 | Athletes, DEIB, Mission Focused, Region D, Sports, Uncategorized
At Special Olympics Illinois, we honor the achievements and impact of athletes who pave the way for future generations. One such athlete is Carter Sanders, whose journey embodies perseverance, passion, and leadership. Since joining Special Olympics Illinois in 1998, Carter has embraced competition while fostering inclusion, friendship, and community organization-wide.
Carter recognizes the importance of representation in sports and the impact of those who have come before him. Reflecting on Black History Month, he acknowledges the trailblazers who have created opportunities for athletes like him to pursue their dreams. Inspired by individuals such as Barack Obama and Martin Luther King, Jr., Carter is forging his own legacy by proving that determination and inclusion can make a lasting impact.
A Lifelong Commitment to Special Olympics Illinois
Carter’s journey with Special Olympics Illinois began more than two decades ago, and his passion for the organization has only grown. Today, as an athlete with the Marquette Mustangs in Chicago, Carter competes in an impressive array of sports, including swimming, track and field, bocce, skiing, snowshoeing, golf, bowling, tennis, powerlifting, and team sports.
Throughout his years with Special Olympics Illinois, Carter has found a supportive community that encourages him to challenge himself and strive for excellence. He recalls how certain people he has met along the way made him feel welcome and part of the team, describing moments where he thought, “Did we just become best friends?”
Breaking Barriers Beyond Illinois
For Carter, Special Olympics Illinois is more than just competing — it’s about connecting with people from different backgrounds and experiences. Through virtual programming, he has expanded his reach beyond Illinois, participating in activities across multiple states. “I got introduced to Special Olympics Zoom activities through a fellow athlete whom I met at a Special Olympics Illinois virtual exercise class. This led to me participating in those activities on a regular basis, ranging from exercising, playing Bingo, informational classes on safety and healthy eating, social hour, and Saturday night dance parties.”
These experiences have reinforced his belief in inclusion and representation in sports. Special Olympics Illinois has provided him with opportunities to meet athletes from different regions, learn from them, and grow as both a competitor and a leader.
Chasing Dreams and Making an Impact
Carter’s aspirations extend beyond local and state competitions — he has his sights set on qualifying for the Special Olympics USA Games. “In local competitions, I have competed against athletes and teams from different agencies, and in state competitions, I have competed against the best not only in Chicago but throughout the entire state of Illinois. When I finally get the chance to compete in the Special Olympics USA Games, I’ll get to compete against those representing other states.”
His leadership doesn’t stop at athletics. As a member of the Special Olympics Illinois Gratitude Team, Carter gives back by connecting with donors to thank them for their support. “Although I’m pretty new to the Special Olympics Illinois Gratitude Team, I enjoy reaching out to Special Olympics Illinois donors via phone, email, letter, or video message thanking them for their support and contribution.”
Kaitlyn, Special Olympics Illinois Assistant Director of Donor Relations and fellow Gratitude Team member, shares, “Carter is an exceptional leader in our gratitude efforts. He is always the first to volunteer for a new project or offer insight and new ideas in meetings. Carter’s enthusiastic attitude motivates his peers and other leaders to make the most of every opportunity presented to them.”
Looking ahead, Carter hopes to continue creating meaningful change as an advocate for health and inclusion. “I aspire to be a Health Messenger and possibly a Sargent Shriver Global Messenger.” These roles within Special Olympics Illinois focus on advocacy and community outreach, something Carter is passionate about.
A Legacy of Excellence and Representation
Carter’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that diversity strengthens our community and fuels progress in sports and beyond. As Special Olympics Illinois continues to celebrate inclusion, Carter’s story stands as a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of perseverance.
His hope is that his own journey will inspire others to believe in themselves, embrace inclusion, and never give up. Learn more about Special Olympics Illinois’ diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts.
by Kira Ryan | Feb 17, 2025 | Athletes, Mission Focused, Region B, Region D, Sports, State Tournaments, Uncategorized
Special Olympics Illinois Winter Games is always an unforgettable event.
Throughout three incredible days in Galena, more than 350 athletes from across the state came together to show off their abilities in alpine skiing and snowshoeing at the state-level competition.
Whether racing down the slopes or powering through the snowshoeing course, each participant gave it their all.
Over at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, snowshoeing competition was met with fierce competition and cheering fans.
“That’s my buddy racing,” Region D athlete Eric Bell shouted toward his friend and teammate Robert Taylor at the start of his race, a true testament to the bonds formed within this community.
“It was good. It was a nice ride,” Region B athlete Josh LeClaire reflected after his snowshoeing race, embracing the joy of the experience.
Meanwhile, over at alpine skiing, athletes carved their way down the slopes with speed and precision.
Region C athlete Haley Morris proudly declared, “I’m so proud of myself. I did it,” after a gold medal was placed around her neck for her win in the Super G race.
Winter Games saw a different shift in weather every day which added to the excitement of the event.
Tuesday began with no snow in sight, but by Wednesday and Thursday, a thick blanket of fresh snow covered the competition areas, creating ideal conditions for skiing and snowshoeing events.
But despite the day, with snow or without, the February cold was in the air. But for many it wasn’t even a factor. “It’s not cold to me,” one athlete was overheard saying atop Chestnut Mountain.
No matter the weather, no matter the challenge, the athletes showed what it truly means to push limits and embrace the thrill of competition.
Their enthusiasm is what keeps the excitement high and makes Winter Games an unforgettable celebration of determination, friendship, and the true display of inclusion.
View photos and results from 2025 Winter Games.
by Kira Ryan | Feb 11, 2025 | Athletes, Mission Focused, Region B, Region G, Sports, Uncategorized
llinois Athletes Ready to Shine on the World Stage in Turin, Italy
Every athlete dreams of a moment when their hard work, passion, and dedication lead to something extraordinary. For three Special Olympics Illinois athletes, that moment is just around the corner as they prepare to compete at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy.
From March 8-16, 2025, the picturesque city of Turin will host more than 1,500 athletes from 103 countries, all united by the transformative power of sport. Among them will be Illinois’ own Daniel Johnson, Mallory Marvin, and Brandon Waller, who will proudly represent both their state and country as part of the Special Olympics USA delegation.
Meet the Illinois Delegation Each of these athletes has carved their path to this monumental achievement with grit and determination:
- Daniel Johnson, of Normal, IL, will bring his speed and endurance to snowshoeing, racing across snowy landscapes.
- Mallory Marvin, hailing from Libertyville, IL, joins Daniel in snowshoeing, showcasing her power and perseverance.
- Brandon Waller, from Palatine, IL, rounds out the snowshoeing contingent, determined to leave his mark on the world stage.
The Road to Turin
Behind every great athlete is a team of supporters. Joining the athletes on this journey is Special Olympics Illinois coach Jim Bluemond of Geneva, IL, who will serve as a snowshoeing coach, offering guidance and encouragement. Additionally, Carolyn Cronin, a staff member from Mount Prospect, IL, will contribute her expertise as a virtual sports manager during the games.
These games are more than a competition – they’re a celebration of what’s possible when inclusion, equality, and excellence come together. Special Olympics USA will send a 160-member delegation to Turin, competing across eight sports including Alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, figure skating, snowshoeing, and more.
Building Memories Beyond the Podium
Brock Banos, the Head of Delegation for Special Olympics USA, shared the profound impact this opportunity has on athletes: “Attending the World Games is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these athletes and Unified partners. It’s the culmination of years of dedication and commitment. As they compete on the global stage, they will also experience new cultures, create countless memories, and build lifelong friendships.”
This sentiment resonates deeply with the Illinois athletes. For them, the chance to compete in Italy is about more than medals; it’s about being ambassadors for inclusion and showcasing the boundless potential of athletes with intellectual disabilities.
A Message of Pride and Inspiration
The excitement and pride surrounding the Illinois delegation are palpable. Special Olympics Illinois President & CEO Pete Beale-DelVecchio remarked, “We are incredibly proud of athletes Daniel, Mallory, Brandon, Coach Jim, and team member Carolyn. Their achievements inspire us all and reflect the spirit of Special Olympics Illinois. We know they will represent our country with honor and showcase the inclusive community of our state.”
As the world tunes in, thanks to extensive coverage by ESPN, Illinois will cheer for these remarkable individuals who remind us that determination knows no bounds.
Join the Journey
The countdown to the World Games has begun, and the journey is as meaningful as the destination. If you’re inspired by these athletes and their stories, you can be a part of the Special Olympics Illinois movement. Whether through volunteering, donating, or cheering on these champions, there are countless ways to get involved.
Let’s rally behind Daniel, Mallory, Brandon, and the entire delegation as they prepare to shine on the global stage. Read their full biographies and support the team.
