Stepping onto the court for the first official competition of the Lone Star College-Montgomery Special Olympics Delegation was already a milestone. For lifePATH® student Kendall Young, the moment became even more memorable when he walked away with a gold medal.

Young competed in the Division 2 Basketball Skills category at the Special Olympics Texas Area 4 and Area 6 Basketball Skills Competition, held at York Junior High School in Spring. He earned the top spot after completing three timed events: speed shooting, cone dribbling and alternating chest passes.

“This milestone speaks volumes about the dedication and spirit of our LSC-Montgomery Special Olympics team,” said Brett Boswell, manager of sports and recreation and coach for the LSC-Montgomery Special Olympics team. “In his first competition, Kendall’s achievement is truly inspiring and sets a strong foundation for what lies ahead.”

Young’s Maverick spirit was on display before he even entered the competition. He spent the morning volunteering and assisting with the Division 1 shooting events, demonstrating the leadership, service and sportsmanship reflected in the Special Olympics athlete oath: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

The gold medal represents another achievement in a college journey defined by growth and perseverance. After facing challenges at another university, Young decided to start over through LSC-Montgomery’s lifePATH® program. Since then, he has flourished socially and academically, earning a place on the President’s List and receiving the lifePATH® Campus Ambassador and Social Light awards.

LSC-Montgomery’s lifePATH® program provides an opportunity for students with disabilities to experience college life while developing the academic, social and career-readiness skills that support greater independence. For Young, that supportive environment has allowed him to grow as a student, athlete, volunteer and campus leader.

With the guidance of Boswell, the support of LSC System Head of Delegation Dr. Jarome Davis and encouragement from his network of mentors, Young continues to pursue excellence both in and outside of the classroom. His journey is a powerful reminder that starting over can lead to new opportunities, meaningful connections and even a place at the top of the podium.