Oak Lawn Special Olympics Stars Shine At USA Games

OAK LAWN, IL–Oak Lawn Park District Special Recreation Department athletes brought home the bling from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota last month.

Oak Lawn's finest represented Team Illinois with heart, hustle, and championship-level spirit.

Christine Makes Waves With Two Golds

It was an extraordinary week for swimmer Christine Leverenz, who delivered a stunning performance in the pool and returned home with three medals:

• Gold Medal – 50-Yard Backstroke
• Gold Medal – 50-Yard Breaststroke
• Silver Medal – 50-Yard Medley Relay

Her commitment, positive attitude, and never-give-up spirit have inspired everyone around her. These medals represent so much more than podium finishes; they reflect countless hours of training, determination, and an unshakeable belief in herself.

Team Illinois Aces Volleyball Earns Silver Medal

The Team Illinois Aces Volleyball Team put on a thrilling run at the games, advancing to the gold medal match after a hard-fought three-game victory over North Dakota. In the championship game, the Aces secured a silver medal in a closely contested final against Ohio.

Representing Oak Lawn on the court were athletes Becca Gehle and Marium Wahid, alongside Unified Partners Todd Mallo and Mia DiGiacomo. Together, they exemplified what Unified Sports is all about, teammates pushing each other, and celebrating every point as one team.

Coach Kathy Leads Team Illinois Gymnastics to an Incredible Performance

Representing Team Illinois as a gymnastics coach at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games is an amazing accomplishment in itself, but the impact Coach Kathy Sievers made goes far beyond the competition floor. Coach Kathy trains out of the Oak Lawn Park District Racquet Center. Under her guidance, the gymnastics team delivered an outstanding performance:

• 7 Gold Medals
• 4 Silver Medals
• 1 Bronze Medal
• 5 Fourth-Place Finishes
• 3 Fifth-Place Finishes

While the medals are remarkable, Coach Kathy's greatest achievement is the confidence, courage, and determination she inspires in every athlete she coaches. She reminds us that success isn't just measured by what hangs around your neck, but by the heart, perseverance, and sportsmanship you show every step of the way.

“It was an incredible experience competing in Unified Volleyball on a national stage. Having the opportunity to meet and play alongside athletes from across the country was truly unforgettable,” said Todd Mallo, Unified Partner and Oak View Manager and Special Recreation Supervisor. “Unified sports demonstrate the power of inclusion, teamwork, and friendship. The world needs more opportunities that bring people together, more acceptance, and more support for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Proud to be part of a movement that shows what is possible when everyone is given the chance to belong and succeed.”