At the annual Special Olympics Ohio State Leadership Conference on Saturday, October 12, the following awards were given:
Golisano Leader in Health awards
University of Toledo
UT has been promoting S.O. Health programs since 2016, through its exercise science department. UT’s healthy Athlete program helped to kick-start healthy community projects in Ohio.
Lucas County Board of DD
With the LCBDD, Special Olympics Ohio has been ablate effectively execute Healthy Community opportunities in Lucas County/Northwest Region.
Volunteers of the Year
Don and Connie Oswald
This couple has volunteered with the Logan County Braves for more than 25 years as coaches, chaperones, bus drivers, and basically doing anything else that is needed. Even after they retired and moved to Florida part–time, the Oswalds continue their involvement when they are in Ohio. Athletes love and respect them and really miss them when they go south for the winter– but get excited again in the spring when they return.
Coach of the Year
Dana McDonie
Dana is much more than just a coach. Her biggest strength is the ability to communicate and connect with athletes. She has lent a hand to families in times of need and is universally loved by families, coaches, and the athletes of Columbus City Schools Special Olympics Program.
Outstanding Support by a Business
L.E.M.C. Punishers of Central Ohio
The Punishers participate, rain or shine, in an annual cash drop event helping to raise more than $30,000 for Westerville Special Olympics. They have invited athletes to join them at local Bike Nights and sometimes even offer motorcycle rides!
Family of the Year
The Limbach Family
This family is “all in” for Special Olympics Ohio. They represent the mission of Special Olympics through their words and their actions and have a wonderful mix of support to their local program with an athlete, a coach, multiple cheerleaders, and volunteers as members.
Spirit of Special Olympics
Jason Andrus
Jason has been involved with Special Olympics Ohio for the past 33 years. Special Olympics has provided not just a chance for him to compete, but a chance for friendships, time with coaches, and his biggest support system: his family.
Benefactor of the Year
In memory of Mark Snodgrass
When 32 year-old Mark Snodgrass passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, a void was left for so many, including some young Ohio athletes. A lifelong lover of all things athletic, Mark was an avid youth coach and is remembered by those who knew him as a generous and caring person who would give his last dime to anyone in need. In tribute to Mark, donations poured in to Special Olympics Ohio. Mark’s memory will be treasured by so many athletes who miss his kindness, his infectious laugh, and his smile which could light up a room.
Athlete of the Year
Daniel Jameson
Daniel has been involved in many sports such as Bowling, Track and Field, Bocce, Swimming, Volleyball, and Basketball. He also plays many roles in the Butler County Special Olympics program such as Board Member, Secretary, and Athlete Liaison. He recently volunteered at the 2019 State Equestrian event, showing his true work ethic because he had worked his night shift job and then went directly to volunteer all day.