Merriam Webster’s definition of Champion is a “Warrior, fighter, advocate, defender and winner”. This defines Tom in every aspect of the word. Tom competed in his first ever national games for Special Olympics in July 2018 on behalf of Down Home Ranch. He competed in three bowling events: Singles, Unified Team and Unified Doubles, placing 4th, 3rd and 4th respectively!

Since he was 5 years old, Tom has been a Special Olympics Athlete, competing in his personal favorite sport golf, along with bowling and various track and field events. To this day, Tom continues to participate in golf and bowling for Special Olympics where he is excited and proud to continue competing. When asked what a champion means to him, Tom believes it is someone who knows the rules, follows the rules, is honest, thinks positive & never gives up!