Athlete of the Month: Meet Eugene Myers III

Eugene Myers III

Age: 17

Grade: 11th

Avondale High School

What would you like the special needs community to know about you? What have been some challenges you have experienced and how have you overcome these challenges? Finding activities that I can do with my friends that we would all enjoy. But at high school I joined the varsity bowling team and compete in several Special Olympic sports this allows me to do lots of activities with my peers

Advice you have for others in the special needs community: Find an activity that you enjoy and do it a lot. For me that’s sports

Something you would like your parents to know: Thank you for being good parents and taking care of me.

What sports or extracurricular activities do you participate in?

Bowling, tennis, swimming, unified basketball, track and field and golf

Highlights of Eugene’s Special Olympics and bowling competitions:

I got started in Special Olympics as a bowler. Now I am on varsity bowling team and bowled a high score of a 290 for my sophomore year and competing several times at the state games for Special Olympics swim in both freestyle and backstroke. He won 3 gold medals in 25 free, 25 backstroke and the 4x25 relay.

Dawn, is there anything you would like to say about Eugune?

Eugene is our hero. He works hard and loves to compete in sports with other athletes, both typical and special education.

What does Eugune enjoy the most about working with Autastic Athletics?

Eugene was happy to find Autastic Athletics. As he enters his senior year, he is hoping to join the Avondale High School tennis team. Working with Andrew will help him learn the basics to allow him to compete and socialize with his typical peers, and he is excited to do so.

Why is training important to you?

Eugene has learned that you need to practice to succeed at sports, and as his parents we appreciate the physical fitness that he gets from doing what makes him happy.

Dawn, what would you like to say to encourage others who are thinking about trying a new sport?

Eugene has tried a variety of sports over the years. He enjoys gym class and the community you gain playing sports. It is also a great place for parents to expand their community as well. So if you are looking to make friends, looking to work your muscles, or just want to try something different, sports are a great place to start.

Name someone you admire. What makes them special and how have they motivated you?

My favorite coaches are Coach Conklin and Coach Alyse because they encourage me

After high school, my plans are...

After high school I am going to the skills program to teach me life and job skills

Favorite Food: Mac n cheese

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Music: Bob Seger

Favorite TV Show: Friends

Favorite Sports Teams: Lax Bowling Team and Detroit Tigers

Favorite Subject in School: Gym