Bowling for Silver in the Special Olympics: How Monarch’s Day Programs Helped Ricky Rickert Shine
Ricky Rickert couldn’t help but laugh when he recalled the moment he accepted his silver medal at the 2024 Special Olympic Games in Raleigh, NC. As a towering figure, standing on the podium wasn’t easy for him. “When they called me up for the medal, I was afraid I’d fall off!” Ricky shared. “I’m such a tall guy that I had to bend way down for them to put the medal on me. But I took that bad boy home for Stokes County!”, referencing his new hardware. Ricky was even featured in the local paper, The Stokes News, for bringing home the silver for the county!
At 42 years old, Ricky, who has been attending Monarch’s Stokes Opportunity Center (SOC) day program for nearly 20 years, placed second in the singles bowling event taking home the silver medal. His achievement not only highlights his athletic abilities but also exemplifies the support he has received from Monarch’s day programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
From Nervous Beginnings to Special Olympics Success
Ricky’s Special Olympics experience began in 2009, but his initial participation left him feeling nervous. Over time, with the support of his family, friends and Monarch staff, Ricky’s confidence grew. However, in 2023, Ricky faced a significant challenge when he sustained an ankle injury, which could have hindered his ability to compete. “I toughed out the ankle injury, but it was hard,” Ricky explained. “Friends at the bowling competition took care of me. It really stunk but the injury made me stronger.”
After not placing in 2023 due to his injury, Ricky set his sights on the 2024 Special Olympics, determined to come back stronger. With encouragement from his sister, who took him to practice every Sunday with other competitors he had met through Special Olympics, Ricky worked hard to refine his skills. He also took advantage of every bowling outing organized by SOC staff, practicing alongside his peers. Thanks to the support from those around him, Ricky felt fully prepared for the 2024 Games. “Because of practicing every Sunday and the support from everyone, I felt ready for 2024,” Ricky said proudly. His hard work paid off with a silver medal!
Monarch’s Day Programs: Building Skills and Fostering Growth
Ricky’s success didn’t happen in a vacuum. Monarch’s day program services, such as those provided at SOC, focus on developing skills, promoting social inclusion and providing opportunities for personal growth. These programs are specifically designed to support adults with I/DD in building new skills and exploring new interests.
At SOC, the program participants are taken bowling at least once a month as a way to experience the community, engage in fun activities and discover new hobbies, just like Ricky did. “Bowling is fun because I get to meet new people,” Ricky shared. “It gets me away from my video games – I usually play video games most weekends.” For Ricky, bowling became more than just a sport; it became a source of personal development.
Stokes Opportunity Center plays an essential role in the Special Olympics experience for participants like Ricky, handling everything from registration to transportation and providing ongoing support throughout the competition. Every year, SOC staff ensure that the athletes are ready and cheered on at every step. Their dedication to getting participants involved in the Special Olympics and encouraging healthy hobbies like bowling has been transformative for Ricky and others, helping them build skills and create lasting friendships.
A Community of Support
One of the most important elements of Monarch’s day programs is the sense of community that participants like Ricky experience. “I make lots of friends through Special Olympics,” Ricky shared. “We always go to the opening ceremony together, then we get to practice with other competitors. It’s always really fun to hear my friends cheering for me.”
Monarch’s day programs emphasize skill development, social engagement, and the promotion of independence. This supportive community helped Ricky develop the confidence to compete and thrive, both in sports and in his personal life.
“We believe in helping people discover their potential, whether it’s in sports, hobbies, or everyday life,” said Developmental Specialist Robin Bowman, one of Ricky’s longtime supporters. “Ricky’s dedication to bowling has inspired everyone around him, and we’re excited to continue supporting him as he sets new goals for the future. We know he’ll achieve even more with his determination and our team behind him.”
Looking ahead, Ricky is excited about the possibilities that future competitions will bring. “Everyone wants me to bring home the gold for next year, so I’ve got to practice!” With the day program’s continued support and Ricky’s determination, there’s no doubt that his success will continue to grow — on and off the lanes.
Interested in learning more about Monarch’s day programs for adults with I/DD? Visit Monarch Day Programs or contact Monarch’s Call Center at (866) 272-7826.
Posted on: Monday October 14, 2024