Michael Banko

As a student at Sandburg and then Stagg, Michael Banko excelled as a Special Olympian. After graduating from Stagg in 1987, he competed in his first International Special Olympic Games. He won two gold medals and one silver medal for swimming in those games. In 1990, Mike was named the Illinois Outstanding Athlete, chosen from more than 21,000 Special Olympics Athletes. A true sportsman, he was honored as Sports Channel Inspirational Athlete in 1991 alongside Mike Ditka, Neal Anderson, John Paxson, Steve Larmer, Bobby Thigpen and Ryne Sandburg. Throughout his competitive career, Mike won 42 local Special Olympics medals, 12 State medals, and 3 international medals. As an Honorary Member of the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run, he appreaded on a Torch Run Poster with Walter Payton. In addition, Mike and his family were chosen by the Joseph Kennedy Jr. Foundation as one of the first families of achievement. Sadly, Mike passed away from complications of Alzheimer's Disease on August 14, 2014 at the age of 48.