Caldwell Wins Gold at the Special Olympics' Tennis Tourney

(SAVANNAH, Mo.) Tennis started out as just a hobby for Simon Caldwell.

"I don't think he had any idea about winning or being good," tennis coach Ron Selkirk said. "He was just playing tennis."

But six years into his tennis career, it is clear that Caldwell has found his niche.

At The Xperience, the Special Olympics' invitation-only tournament that takes place in Charlottesville, Va., he won all five of the matches in his division in straight sets to claim a gold medal.

It made for a weekend that he'll never forget.

"It was awesome," Caldwell said.

It was just as exciting for his parents.

"It's great. Any parent likes to see their children do well, and especially the situation," Simon's father Bob Caldwell said. "The Special Olympics is just such a wonderful program."

Selkirk says Simon is always turning-heads at the St. Joseph Tennis and Swim Club when he is on the courts.

"Every time he comes out and plays with people, he surprises them," Selkirk said. "They're always walking off the court smiling and shaking their head saying 'boy that boy's really pretty good.'"

But tennis and the Special Olympics do more than just affect his win-loss record, it also helps him grow as a person.

"It's such a great thing, and he makes so many friends," Bob said. "He made new friends out there. Its just been a great thing, and it's really helped him become more outgoing. He works here in St. Joe at Specialty Industries, and made so many friends. They're all so proud of each other."

Despite his recent accomplishments on and off the court, he is not settling. Simon is already setting new goals.

"I want to go back next year -- win another gold medal."