Dylan Sendgraff: Champion of Inclusion at Special Olympics Nebraska
By Haley Waggoner
Dylan Sendgraff isn’t just a coach or a mentor; he’s a driving force behind inclusion at Special Olympics Nebraska. What began as volunteer coaching has grown into a full-time mission. Now serving as the director of regional field services for the East Central region, Sendgraff works every day to ensure athletes of all abilities have opportunities to grow, connect and lead.
His day-to-day shifts from organizing events to growing awareness in Lincoln to working directly with athletes; his schedule changes a lot, but his motivation never wavers. “It’s the athletes,” he said. “Seeing them build friendships, improve in their sport, and just be happy, that’s what keeps me going.”
Throughout his years, Sendgraff has seen firsthand how Special Olympics Nebraska programming changes lives, not just for athletes but for families, volunteers, and the entire community. “Everybody has a place in the world for something,” Sendgraff said. He is committed to making sure everyone finds a seat at the table.
Dylan Sendgraff (bottom row, far right) values his relationships with Special Olympics athletes, including Wyatt Spalding (bottom row, middle).
Sendgraff’s Special Olympics journey began in 2007 as a way to complete required service hours for high school graduation, but quickly grew into a lifelong passion. Once he started coaching, he knew he found his calling. His proudest moments include coaching at two USA Games in Lincoln (2010) and in Orlando (2022). While coaching basketball in Fremont, Nebraska, Sendgraff built long-lasting relationships with his athletes, including Wyatt Spalding, who said, “I always wanted a coach who cared about me as a person, not just a player. I felt that with Dylan.”
Known for seeing potential in his athletes, Sendgraff pushes them to grow both on and off the court. His impact continues to be felt by athletes past, present, and future.
As he transitioned into a staff role, Sendgraff has athletes on his mind. That’s evident as he works to create successful events and strengthen community engagement while spreading the mission of inclusion and empowerment across the state.
According to Nate Parks, VP of Program at Special Olympics Nebraska, Sendgraff’s confidence and passion shine through in everything he does. “He connects with athletes and builds relationships that inspire everyone around him. Because of his dedication, Special Olympics Nebraska keeps growing and getting better,” Parks says.
Dave Demyan, Director of Sports and Competition, agrees. “He is a great fit for the Director of Regional Field Services because of his background working directly with athletes. He came in with a lot of experience and strong connections, and he’s always focused on giving athletes the best experience possible!”
Through every role, Sendgraff remains committed to the driving force behind Special Olympics Nebraska – a mission of inclusion and empowerment. His passion continues to shape the organization today and will for years to come!
