Congratulations to JONATHAN STONER for being selected as the recipient of the John Steinour Award this year!  Jonathan first became involved in Special Olympics in 2013 when he signed up for aquatics (which is now called “swimming”).  He fell in love with the people and the program, where he now participates in 7 sports:  bowling, basketball, athletics, swimming, tennis, powerlifting, and bocce.

Jonathan positively impacts the entire Team Adams program through his enthusiasm, kindness, and outgoing personality.  He greets his coaches and fellow athletes at the start of practice, often saying “hello” or asking “how are you?”.  While some athletes complain about stretching, Jonathan is eager to do it and can often be heard counting out loud or saying “switch” when it’s time to change arms or legs.  While some athletes groan about walking or jogging two laps around the tennis courts to warm up, Jonathan happily leads the way with a smile on his face.  He frequently gives hugs and high fives to other athletes, and if he’s waiting his turn, he cheers them on from the sidelines.

Jonathan has also had a positive impact on his coaches.  One of his coaches who is a U.S. Air Force veteran said, “I am so impressed and touched by the patriotism, reverence and enthusiasm that Jonathan expresses when he sings the National Anthem and salutes the flag.  It is truly inspiring and magical, and it left a huge positive impression in my mind.”  Another coach said, “Jonathan learns things about people and remembers to ask or comment.  He is a huge Orioles fan but knows that I am a Phillies fan. If I am at an event with him during the season (even during the dance at Penn State!), he keeps track of the Phils' score as well as the O's and keeps me updated.” 

Jonathan’s positive personality has even impacted his hometown community.  He is 25 years old, and yet his former middle school principal still greets him by name and gives him a high-five when he bumps into him at a high school football game.  Jonathan’s former Superintendent went out of his way recently to meet up with Jonathan to give him some Orioles memorabilia.  One of the high school football cheerleaders who formed a friendship with Jonathan after seeing his extraordinary school spirit at Biglerville football games came to watch Jonathan compete at Indoor Winter Games in bowling a few years ago. Those kinds of relationships show the true impact that Jonathan has had on his local community.

Special Olympics means so much more to Jonathan than simply playing sports.  It is a lifeline that provides him a meaningful and rewarding life in many ways, while giving him the opportunity to touch the lives of so many others without even realizing it.