Luke got his start in competitive swimming at 8 years old when Coach Buffy Hall of the Midland Dolphins said yes to creatively including him in swim practices. At age 11, Luke found success in Special Olympics (Area 30). Later, he became a 3-year letterman at Dow High School in Midland Michigan. Luke continued to to swim with the Dolphins for 17 years, only recently switching to Midland Masters.
Luke’s inclusion on the Dow High swim team, classroom, drama department and marching band propelled him to receive a Ruby’s Rainbow scholarship to attend college classes at Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU). While at SVSU, Luke earned his Red Cross Lifeguard and Water Safety Instruction Certifications, played in the marching band, and became the first to receive a “Think Cardinal” Certificate.
His participation on the USA Down Syndrome National Team(s) in 2018, 2019, and 2022 have all been incredible experiences. His career highlights of making the podium at the European Open in 2019, and setting 4 DSISO Americas records have been big moments for him competitively. But Luke continues to swim because of the fun he has with his teammates and traveling around the USA and the world.
Luke leaned on those friends in recent years as he has had to overcome two significant medical events. In 2020, Luke had multiple pulmonary embolisms in both lungs. In December of 2022, Luke had open heart surgery to repair a hole that was causing his heart to enlarge. He has had to work incredibly hard to overcome those challenges. Luke was lucky to be supported in his recovery by Dr. Merrick Lincoln (DPT, CSCS) and Sean Leahy (Certified Personal Trainer). Luke is grateful to all of his coaches and friends for supporting him. He is so proud to represent Midland and the USA again on the 2024 National Team.
Luke loves living independently and continues to be included in his community. He works at the Greater Midland Community Center assisting with swim lessons. He volunteers with both Rock, Steady, Boxing and Cultivate Coffee. He is also the Talk Show Host for a local show on MCTV called @321Connection.
