Hometown: Osage City, Kansas
Sport: Swimming
Stevie Walker has been part of Special Olympics Kansas for 16 years, competing in a wide variety of sports including softball, track, basketball, volleyball, and swimming—the sport that will take her to the 2026 USA Games.
For Stevie, Special Olympics has been life-changing. “I don’t feel shy anymore, and when I see someone that needs help, I go ahead and help them. I just feel like a better, more caring friend,” she shared.
She has overcome challenges with hand-eye coordination and reaction time, but she doesn’t let obstacles slow her down. What makes her most proud is seeing what she and her friends can accomplish, while also making her family proud. “I can see how far I can go if I work hard,” Stevie said.
Outside of sports, Stevie enjoys singing, watching movies, going to car shows, attending local festivals, and cheering on her nieces and nephews at their games. She also loves animals and has a dog named Bella, four indoor cats, and several strays she cares for.
A graduate of Osage City High School, Stevie once carried the Torch at State Basketball in 2018 and has worked at South Shore Animal Hospital for several years. But she considers being selected for the USA Games her biggest accomplishment yet.
Stevie admires her family most, crediting them for their support when she was young and battling a brain tumor. Their encouragement continues to motivate her as she trains for Minneapolis, joining a gym and swimming laps throughout the summer to prepare.
“Attending the USA Games means I get to represent my state. It’s a big opportunity and an honor,” Stevie said proudly.
