“Special Olympics means so much to me. It has given me opportunities I might not otherwise have.”
My SOWI Story is back! This week we hear from Seth Rehrauer of Oregon, Wisconsin!
How did you become involved with SOWI?
I began my Special Olympics involvement by playing bocce ball. Some friends of mine were involved and asked if I would be interested.
What sport(s) do you participate in and what is your favorite sport?
I participate in swimming, bowling, bocce ball and basketball. My favorites are swimming and bocce ball.
Seth swimming at the 2018 USA Games
What do you like the most about being involved with SOWI?
I really like meeting new people/friends and having fun with them. Special Olympics gives me an opportunity to participate in sports that might be difficult for me in a regular school setting.
Tell us about one of your favorite memories with SOWI.
My absolute favorite Special Olympics memory is representing Team Wisconsin at the USA Games in Seattle, WA in July 2018. It was such a cool experience. The message of inclusion was loud and clear and the atmosphere throughout the whole week was electrifying. It is the best experience I’ve had in Special Olympics and I was lucky enough to bring home two gold medals, a silver medal and a bronze medal.
Seth (R) and teammates holding their medals at the USA Games
How would your life be different if you never joined SOWI?
My life would be very different right now if I hadn’t joined Special Olympics because I would not have met the friends I have now, and I would not have had an opportunity to participate in sports like my older brothers did in high school. It makes me really happy when they come and watch me play now when for many years I went to watch them.
Why do you think other people should get involved with SOWI?
I think anyone who wants to join Special Olympics should because it is so much fun. Everyone cheers for everyone else and everyone celebrates when one person succeeds. The inclusion and support is unbelievable! Also, it is a place where you can meet lifelong friends, I certainly have.
Anything else you would like to share?
Special Olympics means so much to me. It has given me opportunities I might not otherwise have. I am grateful that such a wonderful organization exists, and I am very happy to be a part of it.
