by Kendra Busch
Special Olympics athletes are individuals with intellectual disabilities who showcase their exceptional skills and determination through competing in various sports. Their commitment to sportsmanship and overcoming challenges shows that, with persistence and hard work, anything is possible in the world of sports and beyond.
Meet Brittany Beaulieu, a Special Olympics Minnesota athlete and coach who has achieved incredible success through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. During a recent interview with Brittany, I learned she has been involved with Special Olympics for 17 years. Brittany proudly represents both the Maplewood Monarchs and South Region Stars competing in quite a few sports, including swimming, poly hockey, track and field, flag football, softball and basketball. Out of all the sports she takes part in, swimming is her favorite. She likes that sport because it’s a great form of exercise.
Not only does she excel in her own competitions and sports, but she also shines as a coach. Brittany finds a lot of joy in coaching as it allows her to form strong connections with her fellow athletes and support them in reaching their full potential. Her passion for helping others succeed is truly inspiring, making her a valuable member of Special Olympics Minnesota.
Finding community through sports
For Brittany, becoming a Special Olympics athlete was about more than just engaging in sports. When she decided to join Special Olympics Minnesota, her goal was to create meaningful connections and form lasting friendships within the welcoming and inclusive community the organization provides. Brittany not only found a space to engage in sports but also discovered a community where she could connect with others who shared her passion and interests.
Special Olympics has profoundly impacted her life, offering her a unique perspective on the world and providing immense joy. It has provided her with a platform to pursue her passion for sports and leadership opportunities, while also allowing her to connect with individuals who share similar experiences and challenges. Special Olympics is where Brittany can truly be herself and feel accepted. Through this wonderful organization, she has found a sense of belonging, empowerment and inspiration that has helped shape her into the person she is today.
Brittany shows determination and resilience in the face of challenges, and her family serves as her ultimate source of inspiration. With their encouragement at competitions, she finds the courage to push herself harder and do her best. The bond she shares with her family not only helps her performance but also shows the profound impact of their support in her journey as an athlete.
Brittany goes beyond sports
Brittany also takes part in Special Olympics Minnesota’s athlete leadership programs, highlighting her commitment to personal growth and development within the community. She’s taken a variety of courses such as Athletes as Coaches, Beginner Global Messenger, LETR Ambassador, Athlete Leadership 101, and Health and Wellness Ambassadors. Because of her involvement in athlete leadership classes, Brittany now serves as a Global Messenger and Health Messenger for Special Olympics Minnesota. Her participation showcases how the program can empower athletes and produce strong advocates within the Special Olympics Minnesota movement.
Everyone has a dream or goal that they would like to achieve! One of Brittany’s dreams came true when she attended USA Games in Orlando, Florida in June 2022. Her proudest moment was participating in the Games for swimming as a Minnesota athlete. Brittany cherished the experience of a lifetime, meeting talented athletes from different states and forming new friendships. Her USA Games experience was truly amazing and it’s something she will always remember.
Embracing her true self
Special Olympics is an inclusive environment that fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance for all individuals involved. I asked Brittany, “What does inclusion mean to you?” She said inclusion means creating a world where people with disabilities are welcome and accepted into every part of society. She believes in treating everyone as equals, no matter their abilities, and ensuring they have access to the same services and opportunities as everyone else. Brittany’s heartfelt words highlight the importance of accepting individuals for who they are and serve as a powerful reminder of the need to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities.
Embracing her true self
Special Olympics is an inclusive environment that fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance for all individuals involved. I asked Brittany, “What does inclusion mean to you?” She said inclusion means creating a world where people with disabilities are welcome and accepted into every part of society. She believes in treating everyone as equals, no matter their abilities, and ensuring they have access to the same services and opportunities as everyone else. Brittany’s heartfelt words highlight the importance of accepting individuals for who they are and serve as a powerful reminder of the need to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities.
To all current athletes and new athletes looking to join Special Olympics Minnesota, Brittany has some advice for you: “I encourage everyone to embrace their true selves, showcase their unique talents and always shine brightly like the stars they are.” Brittany’s advice serves as an inspiration for all who want to or already participate, reminding them that Special Olympics Minnesota is a place where individuals can truly thrive.
As you can see, Brittany’s story as a Special Olympics Minnesota athlete and coach serves as a true inspiration for all. With her positive outlook, she shows that anything is possible with hard work, perseverance and a supportive community by your side. She shows the impact that Special Olympics Minnesota has on the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities, showcasing the importance of inclusion. Special Olympics is a life-changing organization!
About the author
Kendra Busch is a Special Olympics Minnesota athlete who loves to write. Recently she honed her skills in a writing course offered by Special Olympics North America. The course taught athletes how to write interesting and effective stories. For this Beyond the Finish Line article, Kendra chose to write about her friend and fellow athlete, Brittany Beaulieu.
Kendra and Brittany met two years ago while preparing to compete at the Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Florida. Since then, their friendship has grown stronger, and they love to encourage each other in their chosen sports. “What I love about Brittany is that she is a friend to everyone. She cares about her friends and is very supportive,” said Kendra.
