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Matthew Grimes, World-Class Athlete
 Nearly thirteen years ago, Matthew Grimes became involved with Special Olympics Massachusetts just to meet friends. Since that time, he has developed into an incredible athlete who is very accomplished on and off the field. Being born with intellectual disabilities made it difficult for Matthew to pursue his passion for sports since he could not compete with children his own age. Becoming a Special Olympics athlete gave him opportunities to prove he could compete, opened doors to new friendships and also helped him develop a healthier lifestyle.
As a Special Olympics athlete, Matthew has developed great skills and learned to set and achieve goals for himself. His favorite sport is basketball and one of his most memorable moments with Special Olympics was being chosen in 2009 to play with his Franklin basketball team at the intermission of the Celtics game during “Special Olympics Night” at the Boston Garden. The experience was amazing for Matthew and something he will never forget. He and his family were honored and elated he could participate in such a wonderful event. Matthew also competes in flag football, soccer, softball and track and field. He has received over 75 medals in different Special Olympics competitions along with countless ribbons. Another incredible achievement for Matthew as an athlete was being a member of Team USA in 2007 and traveling to Shanghai, China for the Special Olympics World Games. He was a member of the track and field team where he placed 5th in the shot put, 6th in the 100 meter sprint and 6th as a team member of the 4 X 4 relay team.
Off the field, Special Olympics has given Matthew the confidence and motivation to accomplish great things in his life. Becoming an athlete has helped him get into excellent physical shape and has inspired him to eat healthier and shed at least 60 pounds. Matthew feels he is in the best shape of his life and that Special Olympics has given him the tools to stay strong and fit. He has also worked to achieve a certificate of attainment from the Franklin Public Schools after completing the Accept Program at Ashland High School in 2008. Today, when Matthew is not training or competing, he works part-time for Medway Public Schools.
Matthew and his family are very grateful for Special Olympics and the opportunities it has given him as an athlete along with how it has changed his life by giving him tools to be healthier and more confident. Matthew and his family are happy for the possibilities he has for a better life through sport as well as the confidence and joy derived from being an athlete.
Do you want to see Matthew in action? Take a look at this video of Matt and his team at the last Celtics night. At the 4 minute mark, Matthew does something incredible. You have to see it.
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