My name is Lauren Hoepp. I am a Special Olympics athlete and live in Hampton. I got involved with Special Olympics last year.
My first practice was for swimming with the Dover Mighty Seals. I had really high anxiety. I didn't know anyone on the team or what to expect. After the practice, I was tired! But I loved to swim and was very pleased to be around people like me. I finally felt accepted - as an individual and as a teammate.
Today I compete with Special Olympics in Swimming and Candlepin bowling. Swimming is my favorite sport because I love the water. I am good at swimming and I love my swim team; we have a lot of fun. My favorite swim stroke is the freestyle and the backstroke.
I have also joined the Athlete Leadership Program where I am learning to be a spokesperson for Special Olympics. Special Olympics helps me go outside of my comfort zone and socialize with people. I am more outgoing now; I like to meet new people. It has kept me entertained and busy , I just love it and I call SONH my second family. Special Olympics has pushed me to not give up on myself and shows me that anything is possible with supportive people around you and a positive mindset.
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