Special Connections of Grundy County swim team will head to state in June

The swim team from Special Connections of Grundy County will compete at the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games in June.

Special Olympics allows individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate in sports and gain confidence, friends and skills.

The team made history when every member of the team earned at least one gold medal, bringing the team tally to a total of 22 gold, 5 silver, 1 bronze and 2 ribbons, according to a press release.

They completed against nine other teams in different heats based on age, gender and ability level.

“It’s just amazing. After everything the world has been through, they get to go to state. It’s a just a really feel-good moment for the team,” said Coach Millie Hernandez

The swim team was unable to compete for two years during the pandemic. When they returned to action, the swimmers had to wear masks when not in the pool.

“I’m glad to be back after a couple years of being off and its great exercise,” said swimmer Brooke Brummell. “I enjoy all of my friends I have made on the team since I first started. I look forward to going to state and hanging out with all of them.”

In spite of the setbacks, the team has been working hard since early November to compete in the summer games.

“It means the world to me that they were able to come back after being on COVID leave that long and not to be fearful of the unknown after that comfort zone of just being with mom and dad,” said Coach Lynda Kirkman. They were willing to comeback out again to follow the protocols. I am proud of them from A to Z.”

Swim team members include:

• Marcus Bennett: 100 back, 200 free and 25 medley relay

• Brooke Brummel: 25 breast, 50 breast and 25 medley relay

• Anna Gilchrist: 25 back, 100 free and 25 medley relay

• Nathaniel Graziano: 25 free and 50 back

• Lori Harvill: 25 free, 25 back and 25 freestyle relay

• Layla Hicks: 25 free, 50 back and 25 freestyle relay

• Nicholas Holm: 25 back, 200 free and 25 freestyle relay

• Drew Kirkman: 25 fly, 50 fly and 25 medley relay

• Ronnie Peterson: 100 free and 100 back

• Keith Siron: 25 back, 50 free and 25 freestyle relay

• Shannon Wexell: 50 free and 25 back.

Special Connections of Grundy County swim team coaches are Kirkman, David Boggs, Deidre Hicks and Tina Nall. The team lifeguard is Jordon Countryman.

The Summer Games are attended by over 10,000 people annually including the approximately 4,000 athletes. Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games kicks off with the final leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and includes many activities including a victory dance, according to a press release.

“This is the first time the entire team has advanced to state level, celebrating the whole team will be amazing. It will so fun to leave no swimmer behind. We will all be there — like our swim family,” Kirkman said.

Special Connections of Grundy County is a 501(c)(3) in Grundy County whose mission is to connect people with disabilities to their community. Please visit www.specialconnections.org to participate, donate, and learn more about their organization.