SOMI Athlete “Drafted” by NFL to Announce an NFL Draft Pick
The NFL Draft provides a collective opportunity for millions of fans across the globe to come together and support the next generation of players as they begin their NFL careers. This year in Detroit, inspirational fans, community leaders, and special guests will join the NFL and participate in the 2024 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light by announcing select picks live on stage and remotely.
Unified Dream Team: Danny & Dylan
“I look good,” said Danny Ristich, Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) athlete, soliciting a big laugh from the crowd as the hockey goalie commented on the professional gear he was wearing following an hour of warding off pucks during hockey drills.
The loudest laugh came from friend, Dylan Larkin, standing at his side as the two took questions from the media together. “Danny is always making Waterford very, very proud,” Larkin, Detroit Red Wings hockey captain said of this friend. “One of our local heroes.”
Champions of Character: College & SOMI Athletes Come Together to Cheer
Walking through the empty lobby of Eastern Michigan University’s George Gervin GameAbove Center – a state-of-the-art sports complex that rivals professional stadiums – one would question if they had arrived at the correct location for an event.
The turn styles and ticket booths that spectators crowded through on game days stood empty, and there was not another person to be found at the front of the building.
What We Do
Special Olympics Michigan provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Athletes develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy while participating in the sharing of gifts, skills and friendship among their families, Special Olympics athletes and the community. The athletes achieve their dreams with the support of caring volunteers, coaches, family members and staff. Donations from Michigan citizens and businesses provide funding for the program.
- 23,807 Participants
- 24 Sports
- 2,954 Active Certified Coaches
- 23,216 Volunteers
Our Partners
