This is Andrew Starr. He’s originally from Fairfax County but now lives in Waterford, Virginia, in Loudoun County. He’s been involved in Special Olympics for eight years—and over that time, he’s found a home in both swimming and volleyball. Those are his favorite sports, and the ones he enjoys competing in most.
Andrew is also a Special Olympics Global Messenger. To him, that title means spreading awareness about the organization and its message of inclusion. It means helping bring in new coaches, athletes, and volunteers—and reaching people who may not yet know what Special Olympics is all about.
One memory Andrew holds close is his first time doing time-trial swimming. It was his first official swim competition, and he remembers how excited he was just to get in the pool and compete. As I wrote when talking with Andrew:
“It changed his life because it has helped him make friends and come out of his shell to become more social than he ever was before. It’s also simply just a great environment to be in.”If there’s one thing Andrew would tell someone who’s never been involved with Special Olympics, it’s how welcoming it is. “It’s a great way to meet new people,” he says. “There’s a real sense of belonging.”
Andrew also has ideas for how Special Olympics Virginia can grow. One of his suggestions is to build more teams at colleges and universities—so that students can stay involved and keep competing or volunteering while they’re in school.
When people first meet Andrew, they might think he’s quiet or shy. But once they get to know him, they quickly realize he’s incredibly social and always up for a conversation. If he could share one message with the world, it would be this: everyone needs friends and companionship, and no one should feel like they’re alone in the world.
If a movie were ever made about his Special Olympics journey, Andrew would title it Journey, and he'd choose Tom Cruise to play him. As for who he’d love to see attend a Special Olympics event? “George Washington,” he says.
Behind the scenes, Andrew credits his coaches, teammates, family, friends, and a few standout teachers for helping him grow. One of those important mentors is Coach Joy—his Global Messenger coach and someone who’s helped him evolve not just as an athlete, but as a leader.
