May 20, 2005
Release courtesy of Matt Turk, Simpson College sports information director

INDIANOLA, IOWA . . . Simpson men's basketball coach Bruce Wilson, wife Chris, and son Connor were presented The Special Olympics Iowa Outstanding Family of the Year Award during the Opening Ceremonies of the Special Olympics Summer Games at Hilton Coliseum in Ames May 19.

The award goes to the family that has made unique and lasting contributions to the lives of the intellectually disabled individuals through Special Olympics Iowa.

"I don't know how we can say thank you enough to the parents who step forward and help with Special Olympics," said Rich Fellingham, President/CEO Special Olympics Iowa. "We have parents who volunteer, parents who coach and parents who come out and support their child. The Wilson's are a shining example of parents who are always there, not only for their children, but for other Special Olympic athletes as well."

"They are dependable and willing to help, always saying yes to what we ask of them. They come to Special Olympics State events and volunteer, they help with the West Central Area Games, and, once again, they (Bruce) have stepped up to the plate to serve as Basketball Sports Director for the National Games."

Connor Wilson was born with Down's Syndrome, but that has not prevented him from earning Special Olympic Medals in such sports as bowling, equestrian, and track.

Bruce Wilson is the winningest coach in school history. In 20 seasons, Wilson has compiled a 290-227 record (a .561 winning percentage). Wilson is 54th among Division III coaches in victories. He broke Frank Casey's (239, 1935-54) record for wins by a Simpson head coach. Wilson has been named Iowa Conference Coach of the Year three times (1992, 1995, and 1998).

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