Derek “Tank” Schottle before and after his weight loss.
Derek “Tank” Schottle of Sugar Land went for the gold at the 2016 Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) Winter Games, a statewide competition in bowling, powerlifting and volleyball, which was held in Austin February 5th through 7th for more than 2,500 athletes from across Texas.
Schottle, a member of Lamar Consolidated ISD’s SOTX team, has become a role model for Special Olympics athletes because of his commitment to fitness and sportsmanship and for his love of life. Through his involvement with SOTX, Schottle began a lifestyle change in October 2014, increasing his exercise and eating a healthier diet, resulting in an 83 pound weight loss.
Over the past 15 months, Schottle has shared his challenges on Facebook, encouraging others as he documents his extensive involvement in sports and his fitness journey. Schottle’s Facebook followers acknowledge what an inspiration he has been to them to not give up on their dreams. He treats his Special Olympics teammates the same way, providing encouragement and leading by example.
In last year’s SOTX statewide volleyball competition and after shedding 73 pounds, Schottle and his Lamar ISD teammates claimed second place in the championship match. “It was a lot of hard work to get that far, and I am blessed for that,” Schottle said. “Losing the weight has really paid off. I work out every day, I love to play sports, I do my best, I look great, and I feel healthy now.”
For more information, visit www.sotx.org/wintergames.