Athlete Spotlight: Dylan Fryman

By Jenna Rummer

Dylan Fryman is small in stature, but mighty in spirit. Dylan may be the smallest guy on the ice, but he is also one of the fastest.

Dylan is 10 years old and an Area 12 athlete from Marne, Mich.  Standing at just four foot one and weighing only 46 pounds, Dylan is much smaller than his competitors. This did not stop him, however, from winning three gold medals in speed skating. “Dylan is definitely the smallest guy out there but it doesn’t seem to faze him,” said his father Mike.

I first met Dylan and Mike at breakfast on the morning of Feb. 4. Dylan was already eager to skate that day and proudly told everyone that his dad was his coach while wrapping his arms around him in a loving embrace. Dylan seemed excited when I told him I would be there to cheer him on that day.

By the way Dylan zooms around the ice rink it is hard to believe that he has only been speed skating a short time. Dylan strapped on his first pair of speed skates on Thanksgiving Day in 2008, and he has been an unstoppable force on them ever since. Dylan is so fast in fact, that he gets to skate against skaters in the master’s division that are 22 years old and up. This year is his is second time competing in speed skating at the Special Olympics Michigan State Winter Games.

Not only does Dylan possess great speed, he also has tremendous spirit. When Dylan isn’t on the ice skating, he enthusiastically cheers on other athletes during their races. “He is the biggest cheerleader. He cheers on everyone and lets them know they did a good job. He even runs out and hugs people when they cross the finish line whether he knows them or not. He’s our social butterfly,” said Mike.

In addition to speed skating Dylan also competes in softball and soccer. His father Mike coaches him in both speed skating and soccer. Mike and Dylan first became involved with Special Olympics Michigan through Dylan’s school when he was 6 years old. Dylan began competing in Special Olympics Michigan events when he eight years old, which is the minimum age for an athlete to compete.

When Mike talks about his son he is beams with pride, and his eyes shine with enthusiasm and love. Mike makes it clear with joyous demeanor and words that he enjoys his time coaching his son and other Special Olympics Michigan athletes.  “It’s so rewarding being with these athletes. You can’t help but have a good time,” said Mike.

Dylan Fryman is an inspiration for his great athleticism and terrific sportsmanship. Congratulations to Dylan on wonderful job at the 2010 Special Olympics Michigan State Winter Games!

Posted: 2010-02-18