Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) is set to host the Summer Games on June 8 and 9, 2024, at California State University Long Beach (CSULB). Each year, this inspiring event draws support from communities across Southern California, who come together to cheer on athletes as they compete in a variety of sports, including athletics (track and field), basketball, bocce, flag football, swimming, and unified bocce.
Artistic Journey
At this year’s Summer Games, the spotlight shines on featured artist Max Grasso, a CSULB alum and SOSC athlete since 2015, who fondly reminisces about his time as a student. Max graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art, with a focus on animation. His artistic repertoire spans various mediums, including traditional and digital drawing and animation techniques. Max’s work is characterized by an anime style and vibrant colors that convey emotions and capture attention, with themes of unity and positivity. He also fuses his love for nature into his art, showing how outdoor adventures influence his creative process.
Max is not only passionate about his artwork but also takes pride in being a SOSC athlete, embodying the spirit of Special Olympics in every aspect of his life.
College Experience
Max reflected on his time at CSULB, acknowledging both the challenges of navigating the campus and the fulfilling experience of creating art. Despite the occasional hurdles in maneuvering around campus, he found immense satisfaction in seeing his artistic visions materialize. “Just trying new things that I never thought I could do is probably the most rewarding thing,” Max remarked.
He emphasized the significance of his family’s support during his college years, stating, “I have grandparents who live a couple of miles away from Cal State Long Beach, so I would always spend each night with them. They were gracious and accepting, because I am their grandkid. But that’s how close we are as a family.”
Special Olympics Involvement
Max is a member of the Laguna Hills Hawks team and plays sports such as flag football, basketball, softball, and golf. Reflecting on the challenges and rewards of competing, particularly amidst the COVID-19 lockdowns, he emphasized the importance of perseverance and camaraderie.
“Since the lockdowns from COVID, I’ve been telling my team one thing.: I can think of plenty of worse things than defeat or losing a game or a tournament. One is injuring yourself to where you can’t finish. And two, not getting the chance to play or compete at all. My teammates and my Special Olympics family have proven to be just that, a family.”
Amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, the reality of separation evoked fear, yet it also served as a reminder to be resilient within the Special Olympics community. Max reflected on this period, highlighting the importance of adapting to adversity and cherishing the moments spent together. Despite the constraints, the solidarity among athletes and coaches remained unwavering. “It served as a significant wake-up call, reminding us not to take a single moment for granted when we’re together, fostering an even closer bond. Despite the lockdowns, our coaches rallied, ensuring we stayed connected, gathering on weekends to maintain our physical and mental well-being through athletics. This period stands out as a testament to our unity during uncertain times,” Max shared.
Personal Growth
Max shared his journey of overcoming severe autism, crediting activities like singing in the choir for his progress. “That really helped with my progression on the autism spectrum because I used to be severely autistic,” he reflected. From a place of isolation to finding his voice, Max’s transformation was profound. “I would be in my own little corner, not talk or be social with anybody,” he recalled. Through engagement in music, art, sports, and social interaction, Max discovered his voice and conquered some of autism’s challenges. He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from his family and friends, acknowledging his significant personal growth over the years.
Inclusion lies at the heart of the Special Olympics mission, epitomized by the ‘Inclusion Revolution’ movement. When asked about the meaning of inclusion, Max described it as being part of a family.
Offering advice to aspiring athletes and artists, Max emphasized the importance of bravery in the face of challenges, echoing the sentiment of the Special Olympics athlete oath, “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
Max’s Art at the 2024 Summer Games
SOSC is excited to have Max’s art featured at Summer Games. Attendees will have the opportunity to view and get a raffle ticket to own a one-of-a-kind artwork created by Max. Visit Rafer’s Boutique or the Honored Guests area at the Games for your chance to go home with one of his pieces!