Special Olympics CT Honors Stratford Individuals

From Special Olympics Connecticut: Special Olympics Connecticut honored The Kopsco Family and John Turbeville of Stratford at its Annual Hall of Fame event on Wednesday, March 22. The event celebrates the organization’s extraordinary athletes, volunteers and sponsors for their dedication, leadership, spirit and support.

The Kopcso Family is this year’s recipient of the Bozzuto Family Award. The Bozzuto Family Award is awarded to a family who, through volunteer and philanthropic support, has made a significant impact on the organization.

Parents Jim and Marianne, and sons Brian, Kevin and Tom have taken on an assortment of roles to support the Special Olympics Trumbull Program and have been involved with the team for over 30 years.

Brian, the athlete of the family, has participated in cycling, golf, power-lifting, floor hockey and the annual Unified fishing tournament.

Jim has coached a variety of sports including golf and floor hockey. The entire family has been heavily involved in fundraising activities including the Westport Penguin Plunge and golf tournaments that support the organization.

John Turbeville is the recipient of a Spirit of Life Award. This Award is presented to athletes who exemplify the true spirit and meaning of Special Olympics.

John has participated in Special Olympics with the Shelton local program for over eight years. He trains and competes in sports year-round. His sports include Unified soccer, Unified bowling, Unified flag football and track & field. He also plays floor hockey and golf with the Special Olympics Trumbull team.

John is known for always being in a good mood with a big smile on his face and for getting along well with all of his teammates and coaches. He is enthusiastic at all of his practices and enjoys cheering on his peers. John is also known for wearing cool hats on the dance floor at all SOCT dances during competition weekends!

When John isn’t playing sports or dancing, you can find him working hard at Friendly’s restaurant where he’s a valued employee.

Photos courtesy of Special Olympics Connecticut:

(Image 1): Special Olympics Connecticut Board Chair Craig Edmondson, Athlete James DePaola, The Kopsco Family and Special Olympics Connecticut President Beau Doherty.

(Image 2): Lt. Rob Reis, John and WWE Superstar Apollo Crews