SD Special Olympics Newsletter

March 18, 2025

In His Own Words

Playing sports has taught me many valuable lessons and has helped me in my everyday life. Competition helps me set and work towards goals, as well as learn discipline. Throughout the years, I’ve learned that sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. When I fail, I work harder and practice more to be physically, emotionally, and mentally ready to take on the next challenge. I have found that with practice you will always get better. When I want to quit, I take a step back and remember the goals I have set for myself. You will learn from your mistakes, and you can bounce back after setbacks. Always work with others and talk things out. Celebrate when you succeed as you have earned it.

-Nick Mills

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TORCH Winter 2024

5×5 Traditional & Unified

3×3 Traditional & Unified

Team Skills

Rosters

Schedule of Events

NOTE: All information is subject to change

Welcome to the Team, Sid!

My journey with Special Olympics South Dakota began as a volunteer, and as I learned more about the organization’s mission, I felt deeply connected to its purpose. I am passionate about caring for athletes and ensuring they have the resources, support, and opportunities to thrive both on and off the field. I am incredibly grateful to be part of this wonderful organization and to contribute to its mission of inclusion, empowerment, and athletic excellence.

Siddharth Mehta (Sid)

Sports Director / Northeast Area

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What: 40th State Basketball Tournament

When: March 29 & 30

Where: Mitchell

We are expecting 750 Athletes & Unified Partners. Volunteers are needed…

 please help!

Click to Volunteer

Athletes in the Sioux Falls Area who would like to:

1. Improve your physical fitness, flexibility and strength

2. Get nutrition and hydration tips and education

3. Learn about managing stress and feelings

If you read about Nick’s fitness journey, you know he has been working out with Izzy, losing weight and getting into shape. They invite you to join them to begin YOUR fitness journey!

What: Workout with Nick & Izzy

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays

Time: 2pm to 3pm

Location: Unify Center (800 E. I-90 Lane)

Start Date: After Nick returns from Italy!

Click here to sign-up

Please show your love for Special Olympics by nominating the deserving people in your life for an SOSD Outstanding Award!

Spirit of a Champion (Outstanding Athlete)

Don Baker Award (Highest Honor)  

Outstanding Family 

Ron Stewart Award (Outstanding Coach) 

Lyle Farrand Award (Outstanding Volunteer) 

DJ Mertens Champion Award (Outstanding Business or Organization)

Unity Award

Voting closes on May 22, 2025, and will only be accepted electronically

Special Olympics South Dakota is joining forces with Jersey Mike’s restaurants throughout Rapid City, Spearfish, and Aberdeen for the 15th annual “Month of Giving” fundraising campaign in March. Order all month long and make a difference with a donation in-store or through the app. Then come join us Wednesday, March 26, for Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving when each of the Rapid City and Aberdeen stores will donate 100% of sales to the organization!

Madison Strikes for Special Olympics

Join us for a day of bowling and fun! The Madison Strikes for Special Olympics will be held on Saturday, April 12th at Cherry Lanes.

The $45 donation includes: bowling and shoes, an event t-shirt, and snacks/water.

There are four shift times available: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM (Galatic Bowling).

If you’d like to register or make a donation, please reach out to Connie Daniel at connie.j.daniel@hotmail.com or call 605-291-9654.