Umberto Gatti can look at the athletes on the Special Olympics Southern California volleyball team he coaches in the South Bay and beam with pride. There’s no judgment or preconceived notions, no barriers based on appearance. Respect for one another is just a given. “Seeing our athletes hang out with each other, without thinking about […]
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San Diego County coach Jacque Martin has seen what an on-site Healthy Athletes station can do for Special Olympics Southern California athletes. Each year at both the Summer and Fall Games, clinical directors volunteer their services and offer free health exams to the athletes. At this year\’s Fall Games on Nov. 11 and 12 in
Ryan and Taylor Schubert are more than just brother and sister. The Schuberts, who are also twins, share a player-coach relationship for the Special Olympics Santa Clarita Valley volleyball team. The bond through volleyball started when they were about 12 years old. At first, Ryan was more involved with basketball and swimming. Growing up, Taylor’s
Special Olympics Southern California coaches, regardless of sport, often come away with similar thoughts when they reflect upon their experience and interactions with the athletes. To paraphrase: You get back what you put in – and more. Lauren Clarke, who helped lead a USC group of coaches in the Los Angeles area, noted the affection
Jim Cayer has supported Special Olympics Southern California for more than a decade as a volunteer photographer. His photographs are breathtaking and always put our athletes in the best light. He captures their determination, courage, and heart. His dedication to photographing the perfect shot of our athletes shows his passion for our movement and athletes.
Find out what the athletes, coaches, volunteers, and more, were saying on Day 2 at Summer Games – in their own words: “These athletes are empowered through competition and achieve their goals for acceptance and independence with their peers.” -Victoria Dario, swimming awards volunteer coordinator \”I love going to different areas and love meeting new friends,
Here is a collection of thoughts and experiences from athletes, coaches, volunteers, law enforcement and attendees on Day 1 of Special Olympics Southern California’s Summer Games: “This is our opportunity to feel like we don’t have a disability. [Special Olympics] is my chance where I can play a sport.” -Tara Hampton, basketball athlete from Simi
By Naomi Cahill Kaylena Mann is no stranger to being on a sports team. The San Fernando Valley native has been a member of a synchronized swimming team, swam for the Vision Swim Club, and participated in triathlons. However, at 16, Mann has been given a title not many her age can say they possess:
Scott Lazenby wears a number of different hats, most important of all being a SWAT Crisis Negotiator Training Officer. But he also cherishes his involvement in Special Olympics through the Law Enforcement Torch Run. When he’s not working, Scott spends his time coaching swimming and bowling in Kern County. The involvement stems from early-life experiences
Bart Simpson hopes you enjoy the new website!