Meet Andrea — athlete, teammate, cheerleader and friend. A 43-year-old Naperville resident, Andrea is the perfect example of how WDSRA and Special Olympics together create opportunities for people with disabilities to thrive — both on and off the field.
Andrea has been part of WDSRA’s Special Olympics programs for more than a decade. Her athletic resume is impressive: soccer, basketball, softball, volleyball; and now flag football and floor hockey. But what really sets Andrea apart isn’t just her versatility in sports and athletic prowess — it’s her spirit.
If you’ve ever been to one of Andrea’s games, you already know. She’s the one leading the cheers, encouraging her teammates, and capturing the moment with a well-timed selfie. She celebrates every success — whether it’s her own or a teammate’s — and lifts the energy of everyone around her. Her positivity and love of fun are contagious.
Earlier this year, Andrea and her soccer team brought home GOLD from the Illinois Special Olympics Summer Games — a huge achievement that capped off months of hard work, teamwork and incredible memories. But for Andrea, the gold medal was just the icing on the cake. What truly matters to her are the friendships she’s built, the confidence she’s gained, and the joy she finds in being part of a team.
Through WDSRA, Andrea has found more than sports — she’s found connection, purpose and a community that cheers for her in every way.
The Power of Partnership
At WDSRA, sports aren’t just about competition. They’re about growth, confidence and connection. Our long-standing partnership with Special Olympics Illinois makes it possible for athletes like Andrea to shine year-round — in every season, in every sport.
While Special Olympics provides the global platform — from local qualifiers to state competitions and even World Games — it’s WDSRA that brings these opportunities to life in DuPage County. Through hands-on coaching, weekly practices, and ongoing support, we help athletes build skills, confidence and friendships that last a lifetime.
Where Passion Meets Possibility
Each year, WDSRA offers four full seasons of team and individual Special Olympics sports — from basketball and volleyball to bocce and track. Athletes like Andrea aren’t just learning the game — they’re living it. They’re building resilience, sharpening focus and experiencing the pure joy of belonging.
As WDSRA’s Athletics Supervisor Ryan Fleck shares, “Teamwork is really a great way for people with disabilities to feel connected and to build friendships. It’s been great for Andrea and all of our athletes.”
Every victory — whether it’s a gold medal, a new friendship, or simply the pride of personal achievement — is a celebration of what happens when opportunity meets passion.
Beyond the Field: Building Community, One Connection at a Time
Andrea’s story is just one of many. While athletics are a cornerstone of WDSRA’s mission, we are so much more. Our programs mirror those of a traditional park district: art, music, dance, theater, social clubs, camps, special events, adult day programs and more.
Through our Inclusion Services, we ensure individuals with disabilities can fully participate in their local park district programs with support tailored to their needs — often through adaptive materials or one-on-one assistance, at no additional cost to families.
Whether it’s scoring a goal, bowling with friends, or enjoying a movie night, WDSRA creates spaces where people like Andrea can build friendships, grow in confidence and be fully included in their community.
Join Us — And Be Part of Something Bigger
There’s never been a better time to get involved. Whether you’re an athlete, a family member, or a volunteer, WDSRA is here to help you discover new opportunities, new friendships and new possibilities.
Together with Special Olympics, we’re not just building athletes like Andrea. We’re building confidence, community and lifelong memories.
P. S. … Hear what Andrea had to say in a recent NCTV Spotlight feature she was kind enough to join at www.nctv17.org.
Learn more at www.wdsra.com or call 630.681.0962.
