The mission of Special Olympics Florida is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
Find out more about our local Special Olympics athletes below.
TERRENCE FREELOVE
Sports: Basketball, Bowling, Softball, Surfing, and Track & Field
Bio: In the last 8 years as a Special Olympics athlete, Terrence has developed into both an excellent athlete and a young man committed to making the world a better place. His athletic career began in the 3rd grade when he picked up bowling and basketball. Since then, he has developed into a multi-sport athlete excelling in track & field, surfing and softball. Through his Special Olympics participation in basketball, Terrence has developed into a force to be reckoned with, earning his position as the team captain. His leadership extends beyond the court, so much that he has committed himself to the service of others. He is an active volunteer in his church, assisting wherever he is needed. Through his involvement in many Special Olympics fundraising events, he has cultivated a strong relationship with the West Palm Beach Police Department and volunteers to support them in various community initiatives. His impact does not go unnoticed and he continues to inspire those around him. Last year, he was the recipient of the Inspirational Athlete Award for his local program and was inducted into the Special Olympics Florida- Palm Beach County Hall of Fame as the Athlete of the Year.
Athlete Statement: “I love being the captain and supporting all the teams, not just mine. I love working together as a team and helping my teammates with their skills. If you work hard and believe in yourself, anything is possible.”
LINDSAY FULOP
Bio: As recipient of the Athlete of the Year Award, Lindsay Fulop knows what it means to excel at the highest level. Her journey began with Special Olympics 35 years ago, and she has been unstoppable since. Growing up in a household grounded in sports, Lindsay much like her two sisters who were collegiate athletes, was gifted with an athletic ability. As a multi-sport Special Olympics athlete, she quickly established herself as world-class—winning multiple medals, namely at the 1995 and 2007 Special Olympics World Games. That said, Lindsay’s talents and accomplishments extend beyond the playing field. She is a Special Olympics Global Messenger, participated in the 2013 Special Olympics Athlete Congress and has been the Palm Beach County Athlete Input Council Chairperson since 2019, just to name a few. Besides the athletic accomplishments and accolades, Special Olympics has given Lindsay the opportunity to develop professionally, athletically and personally through sports. She enjoys the global exposure she has been awarded with her participation—the chance to train, compete and meet new friends locally, nationally and globally. Without Special Olympics, these opportunities may have never been possible.
Sports: Golf, Swimming, Track & Field, Stand Up Paddle, and Basketball
Statement: “Special Olympics Florida gives me a chance to discuss issues with other athletes and make my opinions heard.”
