News

Special Olympian wins four gold medals

Brian Messenger
Published: June 21, 2007

Based on the four gold medals that she won during the weekend at the Special Olympics, 11-year-old Devan DeSisto has quite the refined taste in neckwear.

"She didn't bring home any silver or bronze bling," said Devan's mother, Audrey DeSisto. "Her school's proud of her. Everyone's proud of her."

Devan, who attends High Plain Elementary School and has Down syndrome, participated in her second Special Olympics on the weekend of June 16. The event was held on the campus of Harvard University in Cambridge.

Andover-based Raytheon Co. was a sponsor for the Special Olympics and helped supply volunteers at the event, where 2,000 athletes participated.

"She's pretty athletic," said DeSisto of her daughter. "It makes her a team player. She was very enthusiastic."

Devan won the gold for three different gymnastic events held at the Special Olympics, as well as the gold for best overall gymnast for her age group.

She was one of four participants from Yellow Jackets Gymnastics Club in Middleton, where Devan practices during the year. She also has a membership at Boston Sports Club in Andover.

"It was the first time that this gym participated in the Olympics," said Audrey DeSisto of Yellow Jackets. "They were really proud that she did so well."

Audrey DeSisto said she wants to help increase Special Olympics participation in Andover, since the benefits are so profound for children like her daughter.

"It builds their self esteem and confidence," said DeSisto. "They make friends. It's just really exciting for them. And it's really exciting for the parents."

Devan got her start participating in the winter Special Olympics, which were held in Worcester. There she played basketball, and was able to use her shooting touch.

"She scored the most baskets out of everyone on her basketball team," said DeSisto. "She's a natural shooter."