Tuscarawas County Special Olympics athletes shine at Winter Games

More than 40 athletes and unified partners from Tuscarawas County Special Olympics recently took part in the Winter Games at The Ohio State University. The state event, hosted by Special Olympics Ohio, brought together thousands of athletes from across the state to compete in team basketball, skills basketball, swimming and competitive cheerleading. The Rockets competed in all four sports, showcasing their dedication, skill and the spirit of inclusion that defines Special Olympics.

Rockets athletes have been preparing for the Winter Games since October, training intensively for the competition. For the first time, the Rockets fielded four basketball teams across multiple divisions, including the School Age Division 1, Unified Division and Divisions 4 and 5.

A key highlight of the season was the Unified Team’s regional championship victory over Portage County, securing its spot at the state competition. The team delivered a standout performance at the Winter Games, capturing the gold medal and finishing its inaugural season with a 10-1 record. Led by J'Marea Sterns, Keilan Patterson, Dorian Wilson and Matthew Medley, the team’s success was built on hard work, strategy and teamwork. Coaches Denise McGinnis and Sarah McVey led the team.

The Rockets’ School Age team also had a strong performance, finishing its inaugural season with a 4-5 record and earning a bronze medal at the Winter Games. Team members Nathan Davies, Julius Emery, Leah Hughes, Nevaeh Jeffries, Addi Miller, Ember Miller, Frankie Poorman, Matthew Toole, Shaun Washington and Lyla Witts demonstrated strong teamwork, with standout performances from Matthew Toole, Frankie Poorman, Lyla Witts and Nevaeh Jeffries. Coaches Angie Hall, Heidi Miller and Lexi Miller led the team.

Rockets skills athletes also brought home medals. Robert Miller and Larry Smitley each earned gold medals, while Chelsea Lefler secured a silver medal. The athletes demonstrated individual determination and achievement in the competition.

The Rockets Competitive Cheer Squad continued its dominance, capturing its fifth consecutive state championship gold medal. Competing in the Mount & Tumble Division, the squad performed a routine set to Lady Gaga’s music along with an original cheer and chant. Team members Dolly Alsept, Kaylee Arthurs, Heather Baker, Emily Erwin, Cindy Franklin, Lexi Lacheta, Addi Miller, Alexis Partridge, Rebekah Rothel, Stacey Shroyer and Cassie Tedrick competed under the guidance of coaches Kat Arthurs, Julie Erwin, Rhonda Lacheta and Heidi Miller.

Rockets Swim Team athletes also earned numerous awards. Jackson Gambs won two silver medals in the 25-meter and 50-meter freestyle races. Katie Ross earned a silver medal in the 25-meter freestyle and a bronze in the 25-meter backstroke. Emma Ward, Kody Miller and Cassie Wright each recorded top-five finishes in their races. The unified relay team of Ryder Margo, Stephen Meredith, Kody Miller and Cassie Wright also posted a strong finish. The swim team was coached by Dee Dee Weber with assistance from Lois Wright.

A gesture of support for the delegation came from Nate Samples, who donated shirts to the entire Tuscarawas County Special Olympics delegation. Samples, who helps lead the Law Enforcement Torch Run throughout Ohio, provided shirts featuring the Rockets logo that served as a symbol of unity as the athletes represented their county at the Winter Games.

In another moment of recognition, Rachael Russell, the current Special Olympics Ohio and Ohio American Legion Female Athlete of the Year, was selected to carry the lantern representing the Flame of Hope during the Opening Ceremonies. The honor recognized Russell’s dedication and success as an athlete and her leadership within the Special Olympics community.

The success at the Winter Games went beyond medals. Rebekah Rothel, who also leads the Rockets Gameday Cheer Squad as an athlete-coach, praised her teammates and their support. Steve Hazelip dedicated his victory to his late coach, Frittz McGinnis, who led him to his last state basketball championship in 2023 before his passing. Larry Smitley said he was proud of his performance. Robert Miller shared excitement about his future with the Rockets, while Emma Ward expressed pride in the swim team’s accomplishments. Chelsea Lefler said, "I love the Rockets. They are my family. I am so proud of these guys."

As the Rockets transition to the spring sports season, athletes will train in bocce, bowling, powerlifting, track and volleyball. Special Olympics programs are open to anyone ages 8 and older with an intellectual disability and offer year-round sports training at no cost.

The Rockets are seeking new athletes, coaches, volunteers and unified partners. For information about joining, contact local coordinator Richelle Lefler at tuscarawascountyspecialolympic@gmail.com.