For over 20 years, Cade has been a dedicated Special Olympics athlete, starting his journey at just 8 years old. Over the years, he has competed in an impressive lineup of sports, including basketball, baseball, football, track and field, tennis, pickleball, soccer, skiing, swimming, and bowling. However, his all-time favorite? Baseball!
Throughout his time competing with Special Olympics, he has earned numerous first-place medals in bowling and lots of ribbons. Cade is a true athlete! He currently trains three days a week, recently completed the Groundhog Run 5K, and is gearing up for another race in May. His mom Jennifer and dad Rex, along with his siblings Alyssa, Will, and David, support him in his commitment to working out and eating healthy. It has helped him build strength, improve stamina, and see amazing results—something his family is incredibly proud of!
Beyond sports, Cade is a social butterfly who loves attending dances, movie nights, and picnics. A talented dancer and singer, he enjoys karaoke, musical theater, and even performed in his church talent show. His love for movies, especially Wicked and The Greatest Showman, reflects his passion. Cade also enjoys spending time with his amazing group of friends, going to movies, dinners, and taking walks. He’s actively involved in Team Up for Down Syndrome, where he serves as an ambassador and encourages inclusion and advocacy.
Cade is a die-hard Kansas City Royals and Chiefs fan, and his favorite players are Bobby Witt Jr. and Patrick Mahomes. He loves attending games and visiting his dad in the broadcast booth at Kauffman Stadium. Cade works at Chick-fil-A and PawsAbilities with Inclusion Connections, where he makes dog treats and toys. An animal lover at heart, he has two beloved dogs, Tucker the Double Doodle and Cain (a.k.a. “LoLo”), a lab mix named after Royals player Lorenzo Cain.
For Cade, Special Olympics has been life-changing—not just on the field, but in his social life and his overall health. Before joining, it was difficult to make friends and find resources, but now, he has an incredible network of friends and families who support one another. Special Olympics Kansas has provided him with opportunities to stay active, build community, and be part of something bigger than sports. Staying active helps Cade’s mind and body, and Special Olympics Kansas provides a lot of benefits for the entire family. “You don’t always have to be at the field and participating in events to see the effects. It goes beyond the field.”
Cade and his family’s advice: “It’s really important to expand your circles, and Special Olympics is an excellent way to do that because it provides fun and ways to connect. Athletes don’t need to worry—there are all levels of competition! It’s more important than ever to be active and stay social.”
Cade’s journey shows the true power of sports and inclusion. We are so proud to have him as part of the Special Olympics Kansas family!
