From First Splash to Gold Medal: Joshua, a TMI Client with Autism, Masters the Pool in Special Olympics Triumph!
- Ginger Cohen - TMI Director of Corporate Communications
- 3 hours ago
- 4 min read
What happens when a Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) client takes a leap of faith into a brand-new passion? In the case of Joshua, he ended up with gold! This determined young man, who has autism, decided to try competitive swimming for the very first time. Not only did he embrace the rigorous training schedule, but he also found his stride immediately, culminating in an exhilarating Gold Medal for his team in the 4x25m Freestyle Relay at the Special Olympics Arizona (SOAZ) State Regional Swim Competition. His journey from first-timer to champion is a powerful testament to the spirit of determination and independence.
The Road to Regional Victory
Joshua, an outgoing young man supported by TMI's Community Integration Training Program (CITP), decided to jump into the pool with the Special Olympics Arizona Thunder Rays team. The structured, repetitive nature of swimming can often be a great fit for individuals on the autism spectrum. Joshua found a true passion in the water!
TMI’s role was crucial in enabling this passion. Joshua's TMI El Centro Direct Support Professional and SOAZ Coach, Rozanne Silver, helped him leverage this new opportunity to build independence skills. She helped him manage his schedule, ensuring he could balance his daily goals with his commitment to the demanding swim practice and meet schedule. Maintaining this routine was essential for Joshua. Rozanne also provided reliable transportation to practices and meets, offering the necessary logistical and emotional support for this major new endeavor.
Joshua's journey wasn't without its challenges, but his determination was his greatest asset. He faced the difficulty of training for his first-ever competition head-on. As a new swimmer, he pushed past the initial hurdles of learning proper technique and building endurance—skills that are invaluable both in the pool and in life. His ability to focus and follow instructions served him well as he dedicated himself to mastering the sport.
Unforgettable Moments
Joshua's competitive season started strong at the SO Yuma Area Meet on Saturday, September 13, 2025, where he showcased his versatility, earning a Bronze in the 25m Freestyle, a Silver in the 25m Backstroke, and a Silver in the 4x25m Medley Relay.
His true breakthrough came at the State Regional Swim Competition in Surprise, AZ, on October 24th and 25th. That Friday, he earned a Silver in the 25m Freestyle. On Saturday, he earned another Silver in the 25m Backstroke.
Then came the final event, the 4x25m Freestyle Relay. Competing alongside his teammates Santiago, William, and Garrett, Joshua swam his heart out. The team's collective effort propelled them to the top of the podium!
When the team touched the wall and realized they had won the Gold Medal, Joshua's reaction was pure joy—a moment of exhilaration and pure accomplishment that he says he will never forget. This moment highlights the profound personal growth and triumph over challenges that sports can provide for people with developmental disabilities, including autism.
Beyond the Water
After earning three Silver and one Bronze Medal, that Gold felt incredibly significant. For Joshua, the victory meant proving to himself that he could set a challenging goal, work hard, and achieve it. More importantly, it showed the strength of his commitment to his team.
When asked what message he would share with other TMI clients, Joshua's simple, powerful advice speaks volumes: "It’s important to try new things! You don’t know what you can do until you try".
We couldn't be more proud of Joshua. His Gold Medal performance highlights how TMI's Community Integration Training Program enables clients to explore their talents, pursue their passions, and lead truly full and independent lives. A big congratulations to Joshua and his teammates!
Thank you to the Special Olympics and their outstanding coaches, partners and volunteers for all that they do to enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
(Thank you to Rozanne for contributing to this story and for helping Joshua to succeed!)
The TMI Community Integration Training Program (CITP) is designed as a vocational and social skills training program to recognize, develop and build the necessary skills for our clients to participate in their community, all at the level at which the client chooses. Clients generally start the process by volunteering throughout the community at various sites. They continue at their own speed, in line with their desires and abilities, while working toward their own personal goals.
Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and veterans with disabilities. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living Services and Family Support Services. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion. Please consider making a donation to assist us with transforming lives for many more years to come. We thank you in advance! Tax ID# 33-0185759
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