Shawn is a decorated Special Olympics athlete of more than 15 years. He competes in basketball and swimming and has qualified for the last eight Special Olympics Northern California Summer Games. He was also selected as an alternate for Team Nor Cal at the 2014 USA Games in New Jersey.

 

When Shawn was a baby his mom started putting him in the pool and noticed he wasn’t able to turn his head fully.  He was soon diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and the water became his haven.  He continued swimming for therapy and loved it so much that his parents called him their “little fish.”  His swimming therapy along with Ride to Walk horse therapy helped Shawn become even stronger.  Today, his development is so advanced most people do not even notice any signs of his Cerebral Palsy. 

 

Shawn attended Del Oro High School and had a job at Pizza Factory where he would make up more boxes than anyone! Shawn is involved with Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS) in Sacramento, where he takes classes and participates in recreational activities such as dances. He previously attended Sierra College and is currently part of the Dream Theater Program. Shawn is an avid singer, dancer and actor.  He lives in Loomis, but has participated in activities in Grass Valley, Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville and Sacramento; thanks to his dedicated parents, Pat and Tom, and loving siblings Kyle and Leah. Shawn loves taking care of all his farm animals: chickens, goats, dogs, a pony, a horse and more.  But he loves his three nieces the most!

 

Described as having a big heart and a passionate kindness for others, Shawn always goes above and beyond for his teammates and demonstrates admirable sportsmanship – win or lose. He epitomizes the spirit of Special Olympics and is loved and respected by teammates, coaches and opponents.