Heart of a Champion Award
Matthew Drumright began participating in the gymnastics and swimming Special Olympics programs of Williamson County at age eight.
By age 12, Matthew was selected to represent Special Olympics Tennessee in the 1995 Special Olympics World Games as a gymnast, competing in the six men’s individual events. He won three gold medals, two fourth place ribbons, and the gold medal in his division for the men’s All-Around.
Matthew went on to train and compete in multiple sports and was selected two more times to represent Special Olympics USA in World Level competitions. He competed in the equestrian portion of the 1999 Special Olympics World Games in North Carolina and the bowling portion of the 2007 Special Olympics World Games in Shanghai, China. Matthew claimed silver and bronze medals at both World Games and has also competed in three Special Olympics National Golf Competitions.
Since he started competing in Special Olympics events at age eight, Matthew has only missed one local and one state level competition, due to a broken foot. He currently trains and competes in five sports: basketball, swimming, golf, powerlifting, and flag football. His current goal is to improve on his previous personal best deadlift at the upcoming powerlifting competition.
Matthew’s passion for sports and the joy of competition drives him to train with intention. He loves the comradery of his teammates and the lifelong friendships he has made through Special Olympics.
Outside of competition, Matthew has volunteered for 18 years with the Brentwood High School Football Team, where he is known as Coach Drummy, and serves on the Special Olympics Young Professionals Board.