02/17/2026
From Tuscarawas County Special Olympics Local Coordinator Richelle Lefler:
I am writing to share some incredibly exciting and heartwarming news for Tuscarawas County Special Olympics.
As part of being selected as the Gatorade Player of the Year for Football and Mr. Ohio, Grady Kinsey (Indian Valley, Class of 2026) was awarded a $1,000 grant to donate to a nonprofit organization of his choice. These grants are provided to each Gatorade Player of the Year and are funded by Gatorade in partnership with Schwab. We are deeply honored that Grady chose Tuscarawas County Special Olympics as the recipient of his $1,000 Player of the Year grant.
In addition, Grady went above and beyond by submitting a video nomination on behalf of the Rockets for one of only twelve Spotlight Grants awarded nationwide. We are thrilled to share that he was selected to receive the $10,000 Spotlight Grant as well — bringing the total impact of his generosity to $11,000 for our program.
Grady’s accomplishments on the field speak for themselves. Being named Mr. Ohio and Gatorade Player of the Year is an extraordinary achievement, and his bright future at the United States Air Force Academy is a testament to both his talent and his character. Anyone who has met Grady or watched one of his interviews knows he represents far more than athletic excellence — he embodies humility, leadership, and a genuine heart for others. This generous act only reinforces that.
These funds will make a meaningful difference for our Rockets. The grant will allow us to purchase much-needed equipment, uniforms, and other essential items that ensure our athletes have the tools and opportunities they deserve to compete, grow, and succeed.
We are profoundly grateful and humbled that an athlete of Grady’s caliber would think of Tuscarawas County Special Olympics for such a prestigious nomination. His generosity reflects not only his personal character but also the strength and compassion of our entire community — one that truly values every athlete and every individual.
We are planning an official presentation and will coordinate details with Grady and his family in the coming weeks.
With sincere gratitude,
Richelle Lefler
Local Coordinator
Tuscarawas County Special Olympics
