Finding Strength Through Sport

Matthew’s Journey with Special Olympics New Hampshire

An athlete whose resilience, joy, and determination continue to inspire everyone around him

Matthew is the kind of person who quietly changes the room just by being in it.

Ask anyone who knows him and they’ll tell you the same thing: Matthew embodies perseverance, resilience, and an unwaveringly positive outlook on life. He’s a multi-sport athlete with Special Olympics New Hampshire, a passionate fundraiser and plunger, and someone whose journey reminds us what’s possible when sport, support, and self-belief come together.

But Matthew’s path hasn’t always been easy.

A Journey Marked by Loss and Determination

In a short span of time, Matthew experienced profound personal loss, losing both of his parents and his brother. His future felt uncertain, and his health began to decline. It was a deeply challenging chapter, one that could have defined him. Instead, Matthew chose to move forward with determination and hope.

Through it all, he maintained a positive mindset and made meaningful changes to improve his health and well-being. He embraced better nutrition, became more active, and found strong support through dedicated home providers who believed in his potential. Step by step, Matthew began building a new routine and a stronger foundation for the future.

Thriving Through Sport and Community

Sport became a powerful constant in Matthew’s life.

As a Special Olympics athlete, Matthew competes in multiple sports and lights up when he’s in his element. Those who’ve had the privilege of cheering him on have seen the confidence, focus, and joy that sport brings him, whether at competitions or while proudly running the Law Enforcement Torch Run through the Town of Derry.

Beyond competition, Matthew gives back to the movement that’s helped shape his journey. He participates in fundraising efforts and plunges to support SONH athletes across the state, showing that being part of the Special Olympics community means lifting others up along the way.

Life Today: Goals Met and Joy Shared

Today, Matthew balances a part-time job, athletic training, and time with family and friends. He’s reached several personal goals, strengthened his health, and continues to grow through the connections and opportunities sport provides.

In just a few short years, Matthew has transformed challenges into momentum, inspiring not only his family, but everyone who gets to witness his journey. His resilience isn’t loud, but it’s powerful. His joy isn’t fleeting, it’s earned.

Built Through Sport, Strengthened Through Community

Matthew’s story is a reminder that progress looks different for everyone, and that sport can be a catalyst for confidence, purpose, and belonging. Through Special Olympics New Hampshire, athletes like Matthew find more than competition. They find community, consistency, and the chance to keep moving forward.

We are incredibly proud of Matthew and honored to celebrate all that he continues to accomplish, on the field, in his community, and in life.

🌟 Help Us Tell More SONH Stories 🌟

Know an athlete, volunteer, or moment that deserves a spotlight? We’re always looking to share the stories that bring our SONH community to life. If someone inspired you, reached a goal, or made a difference, we want to hear about it. Submit a nomination and help us celebrate the people and moments that make this movement so powerful.