Institute for Entrepreneurship Entrepreneurial Education Partner
On Monday of this week, we had as our guest speakers, Lindsey and Ryan Sadler. They are the founders of the UCSL Warriors Special Needs Soccer Team and they shared their amazing story with us.
Lindsey works for DHS at Choate and is on the board of the Autism Society. Ryan is a correctional officer at Menard. They are the parents of an amazing son, Landon, who is in 6th grade.
A few years ago, they were looking to get their son involved in some kind of sports activity but there really was nothing available for him in our area. They approached the UCSL about starting a team for children with special needs. From that, the Warrior team was born!
Fast forward 3 years and they now have 26 kids on their team. Children with many different special needs have the opportunity to PLAY in a safe, all inclusive environment with no pressure to do anything but to play, have fun and learn some new skills. There are no other soccer teams like this south of St. Louis and there are children from 6 counties participating on the Warriors team! Lindsey has completed the process of filing for and receiving 501-C3 status so they are an official not-for profit organization. With the support of many generous sponsors, they provided everything their players need at NO cost to the players and families while raising awareness for opportunities like this for kids with special needs.
When they presented to our class, not only did our students see the PASSION and purpose that Lindsey and Ryan have for this team and these kids, they learned so much about collaboration and networking within their community, the importance and REWARD of giving back, and about creating and implementing a not for profit organization. It was a great morning! We had planned to play soccer with the Warriors this weekend but the much needed rain has waylaid those plans! Reach out to Lindsey and Ryan if you have any questions or would like to get involved with this amazing program!
The Warriors are participating in one of the Community Nights hosted by The Villa-Pizza Villa this Monday, Set 16 from 4-9pm! Get down there for some DELICIOUS food and support this fabulous group of families!!! Big Thank You to Ryan and Lindsey for sharing their story with us!
Other News From Around The Same Time
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Congratulations to Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour!!! What well-deserved recognition!!🎊🏆🎊
We had a fabulous Mentor Meet & Greet at The Villa-Pizza Villa this morning! If you haven’t tried their Breakfast Pizza, you should!!!
