Andrea learned to swim at around five years old and as a young adult, she took swim classes at Newton North High School with the Newton Special Athletes program. When the Special Olympic swim team was founded she became a proud team member. She love to participate in the practices, races and games. The interaction with the other team members and great coaching staff, brought out her best traits. She helped out with the younger participants, encouraging them and cheering them on. Andrea enjoyed swimming and just being a part of the action. The Newton Women’s Basketball Team, the Pointsetters, started and that was a new learning experience for Andrea. She took it all in with great enthusiasm.

        The Newton Special Athletes Program and Special Olympics was the best thing to happen to Andrea all around. It gave her a chance to experience success, have fun, improve her self-image and to express her empathy for others.

                                                                       Doris Josephson

Award Criteria:

• Athlete must have been in a Newton Special Athletes Sport for a minimum of one year
• Athlete must show good sportsmanship and a positive attitude in and out of the playing arena
• Willingness to help out his/her teammates and encourage their success
• Someone who always tries hard and performs to the best of their ability possessing the Special Olympic Spirit.
• Kind, Helpful, Cheerful, & Positive Attitude