In the past two years, I watched my sister and dad plan and launch the Genuine Cup in Houston, an international soccer tournament specifically for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including autism and down syndrome. The event grew from 12 teams in its first year to 38 teams in its second, bringing athletes from around the globe together to compete, connect, and be celebrated for their talents.

Witnessing what inclusion through sports can do inspired me. When I saw that Team Special Children’s Charities champions athletes with IDD and provides inclusive opportunities year-round in Chicago, it felt like a natural fit