Clinton Special Olympian to Receive 'Spirit of Life' Award

Theresa McSparran of Clinton will receive the Spirit of Life Award which is given to an athlete who exemplifies the true meaning of Special Olympics.

She will be honored at the Special Olympics Connecticut Hall of Fame Dinner March 20 at the Aqua Turf Country Club in Plantsville.

The annual event honors extraordinary athletes, volunteers and supporters who demonstrate leadership, spirit and selflessness, inspire joy through sport and promote inclusion and respect for individuals of all abilities.

McSparran has participated in Special Olympics for more than 38 years. She currently trains and competes in snowshoeing and Unified Sports® race walking as a member of the SARAH Special Olympics team. She has also participated in basketball, swimming, downhill skiing and Unified Sports®™ soccer.

In addition to playing sports, McSparran serves as a spokesperson for Special Olympics to share her experiences and the organization’s mission. She has served the organization in this role for more than ten years.

McSparran’s first competition as a Special Olympics athlete was a short sprint of just 50 yards on the UCONN track back in 1975, where she was encouraged and supported by her family. Her parents have been leaders and advocates for those with disabilities for decades, setting an example for McSparran.

Since that first day on the track, she has competed in Special Olympics events locally, nationally and internationally. She has attended the Special Olympics National Games in North Carolina and the World Games in Dublin, Ireland. She has earned countless medals and is an inspiration to her peers, overcoming complex medical challenges to compete and succeed.

McSparran is admired by her teammates and coaches for her positive attitude and determination. She is known to always look out for the needs of people with disabilities.

Tickets for the awards dinner, which must be reserved in advance, are $25 per person and may be obtained by calling 203-230-1201, ext. 276 or emailing kellib@soct.org. The event is hosted and made possible through the generosity of the Bozzuto and Calvanese families. Registration will begin at 5pm; the program at 6pm.

For more information on the Connecticut Special Olympics, visit their website here.

Information for this article generously provided by the CT Special Olympics Marketing Department.