Against all odds, Michigan State alum Anthony Ianni has become one of the most inspiring athletes in all of college sports. Here’s his story:
We all love athletes who inspire–those who become role models, and those who set examples for the youth. While there are many athletes that do this, the first that comes to my mind is always Anthony Ianni.
Anthony Ianni was the very first college athlete that was diagnosed with a Pervasive Development Disorder (PDD). In other words, Anthony was diagnosed with autism.
Once he was diagnosed, doctors and specialists told his parents that he would have a hard time graduating high school, and would have little to no shot at getting into college–and getting a degree would be even harder. Doctors also said that he would most likely have to live in a group home for other adults diagnosed with autism.
His parents took the news hard, but that day they vowed to help their son be the most successful person he can be.
Going through school was difficult for Anthony. Although he was bullied constantly, he was able to find a love for sports, especially the game of basketball. Anthony continued to work hard, and continued to play basketball throughout high school. Little did everyone know, but Ianni was about to make history.
Courtesy Autism Speaks
After high school, Ianni went on to become the first athlete with autism to play Division 1 Basketball, playing for the Michigan State Spartans. He continued to work hard through college, and helped his team win two Big 10 Championships, and even an appearance in the final four
Ianni was also the recipient of the Tim Bograkos Walk On Award, and the 2012 Unsung Player Award.
Anthony graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Michigan State in Sociology. He is now a motivational speaker for the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, speaking mostly on the topic of bullying.
Although not a household name, Anthony Ianni is one of the most inspiring athletes this world has ever seen.
