In a heart-warming and inspiring debut at the Special Olympics State Games, 10-year-old Oliver has emerged as a standout athlete, earning three silver medals in bocce.
Competing in singles, pairs, and team events, Oliver’s achievements are a testament to his determination, love for sports, and the invaluable support he receives from coaches and volunteers.
Oliver, who lives with a rare genetic condition that affects his intellectual and physical abilities, joined the Special Olympics program earlier this year. The inclusive nature of the games has offered him a platform to showcase his potential and develop his skills.
Reflecting on his journey and the sense of community that the Special Olympics fosters, Oliver said: “I just like that a whole lot of people make one big club for Special Olympics; getting together and playing together with our coaches and volunteers”.
His words capture the essence of the Special Olympics movement, which emphasises power of sports to discover new strengths and abilities.
Throughout the competition, Oliver demonstrated consistency and focus, excelling in all three categories he entered. In singles, his ability to maintain concentration under pressure and against older athletes, earned him his first silver medal.
Paired with a fellow athlete, Wynson, in the doubles event, Oliver’s teamwork shone through, adding a second silver medal.
Finally, as part of the team event, and with leading the team, Oliver’s contributions helped secure his third silver medal of the Games. One official remarked: “I didn’t realise Oliver was such a leader, and mature. He looked after his team and all the athletes”.
Key to Oliver’s development in bocce has been the guidance of his coach Kerrie, whose patient instruction and encouragement have played a critical role in refining his technique. Oliver spoke fondly of her, saying: “I like it when Kerrie teaches us how to do the bocce skills, fix them up and get better. They help all the people with the hard problems to fix what they did to the very end”.
For Kerrie, Jeff and the other coaches, Oliver’s success is about more than just medals. It’s about helping athletes find joy, confidence and fulfilment through inclusion and acceptance. The Special Olympics is built on the principle that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed, and Oliver’s story is a perfect example of how this philosophy can lead to transformative experiences.
As Oliver looks forward to future competitions, his passion for the sport, his love for his teammates, and his admiration for his coaches remain at the forefront of his Special Olympics journey. His silver medal triumphs in his very first year show that while he may be new to the sport, his potential is limitless. We hope he may be considered in National Selection for 2026 Games.
Written by Sheri Fitton, Redlands Special Olympics.