MT. PLEASANT, Mich. - Bill Goodwill of Escanaba was named the 2005 Inspirational Athlete of the Year during the closing ceremonies of the State Summer Games at Central Michigan University.
"He truly demonstrates the Special Olympics oath, 'Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt,'" said a recent release.
Goodwill has been especially brave throughout the last year since being diagnosed with cancer.
"Despite his illness and all the treatments he had to undergo, if [Goodwill] was in town, he made it to practice," said Becky Carey, Area 1 (Schoolcraft, Menominee and Delta Counties) director. Carey nominated Goodwill because of his positive attitude and drive to always give his best.
Winning the award gives him the honor of running the final leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and lighting the torch during the 2006 State Summer Games.
Though Goodwill did not compete in the 2005 games, he still supports his fellow athletes and continues his training, according to the release.
Goodwill has been involved with Special Olympics for 10 years and has participated in basketball and bowling.
"[He] has been a wake-up call in many ways for all of us - volunteers and athletes - a call to appreciate the wonderful program we have and the friendships we share in Special Olympics," Carey said.
