To an outsider, Danny Duvall might seem shy and quiet, but to anyone involved in Special Olympics, Danny is outgoing, energetic, and affectionate. Danny’s infectious smile was never more evident than at the 2006 Special Olympics USA National Games in Ames, Iowa, where he bowled the highest score?231? of all athletes during the weeklong competition.
“It was something you had to witness,” said Danny’s Coach Don Chaney. “It was an emotional thing.” Danny bowled five strikes in a row in the preliminary round and went on to place fourth overall. Chaney was very proud of his athlete, because over the years Danny has really worked hard to improve his skills.
“He has become so familiar with the basics of bowling,” said Chaney. “I brag about him all the time.” Among the fans and other athletes in the crowd were Danny’s parents. who got their son involved in Special Olympics and bowling 32 years ago.
“He started bowling when he was 8 and has been doing it ever since,” said his mother, Ruth Duvall. Watching her son achieve the highest score was a moment Ruth will never forget. “I was tickled to death, and so proud,” said Ruth. “Anything Danny does in Special Olympics, he does real well.”
Danny has Down syndrome and bowls with other Special Olympics athletes in a Saturday league called Strikes N Spares in Kansas City. He is the captain of the team and is always trying to help others. “Danny is a good captain and cheerleader,” said team member Tiffany Johnson. Chaney also talked about how helpful and motivating Danny is as a captain. “He is always cheering people on, even after a gutter ball he cheers them up,” said Chaney.
Danny has been involved in Special Olympics for so long, he is somewhat of a celebrity when he goes to events. “There are some athletes that instantly get to your heart, and Danny is definitely one of them,” said Special Olympics staff member Mandi Mueller. He also won his way into several coaches’ hearts at the USA National Games, where every state wanted to meet the record holder. Even with all this attention, Duvall remained humble and modest. “He just takes everything in stride,” said Ruth.
Robin Anderson, Special Olympics staff member and assistant bowling coach noticed how gracious Danny was in his victory. “He’s very humble; he didn’t run around or anything; he just smiled for several days.”
Danny’s involvement in Special Olympics has really helped shape the man he is today, and has made him a role model for other athletes. Anderson also believes Danny’s relationship with Special Olympics has been beneficial for both parties. “It’s so nice to see somebody who appreciates Special Olympics, what it stands for, and everything it’s done for him. It’s really helped him grow as a person.”
