How do you define your abilities?
My strength is strong memory. I can always remember events, patterns, tasks and sequences, especially the study notes while learning new things.
What should coaches know about working with individuals with autism?
My advice to coaches about working with athletes with autism is that they should understand the struggles and behavior patterns of individuals. Athletes with autism can have different abilities, behavior and patterns. As a coach, you need to create and design different tactics while training them.
What stereotypes or misunderstandings about autism most frustrate you?
When I was helping at a special center in Hong Kong, there was an occasion when I asked the staff to provide me with updated class information as soon as possible so that I could prepare well before the following weeks. However, my request was viewed as a complaint to them, perhaps because I could not communicate my message well. That incident made me think that other people can have their own thoughts and different opinions on autism.
What do you most want people to understand about autism?
I most want people to know that people with autism can have talents and strengths in different areas and different situations. Please understand their talents and strengths while working with them.
World Autism Awareness Day 2021
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Kurtis Siu
Special Olympics Hong Kong - Long Distance Running - Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger -
Grace Payne
Special Olympics New Zealand - Basketball, Powerlifting -
Dacki Sandiego
Special Olympics Philippines - Badminton, Basketball -
Rodrigo Silvero
Special Olympics Argentina - Swimming -
Aristotelis Makris
Special Olympics Hellas (Greece) - Swimming -
Chris Thibodeaux
Special Olympics Louisiana (USA) - Bowling, Golf, Basketball, Softball, Football -
Benjamin Prousnitzer
Special Olympics Arkansas (USA) - Swimming -
Sammy Raveloson
Special Olympics Madagascar – Athletics