“Through the power of sport, Special Olympics strives to create a better world by fostering the acceptance and inclusion of all people.”
That’s one of the first lines you will find at the Special Olympics’ website. If I hadn’t had the experience of coaching Special Olympics tennis, I would have read that statement to mean something entirely different than how I read it now.
When I was asked to coach tennis for the Special Olympics, I thought I would do them a favor since they had lost their coach due to a very, very sad loss of her own. I didn’t hesitate. It just seemed the right thing to do at the time. What I didn’t realize, was that it was the right thing to do for me and no one else.
Having coached high school tennis for a number of years, I cannot begin to list the many benefits I gained from that experience. Just the other day, while attending a wedding, I ran into a young man I coached all through high school. I actually started to tear up as I spoke with him. He was awesome on and off the tennis court, a true example of a leader. That day, talking with him years later about his life, his goals, his dreams, I could not be happier at that moment.
Between high school coaching and Special Olympics coaching, there are a lot of similarities. A lot. But one thing I experienced while coaching SO tennis, is different than what I have experienced with sports, in general. The Special Olympics athletes seem to play with virtually no ego. Oh don’t get me wrong – they are competitive and play with so much heart but they are there to play their best and that’s it. From the moment they step on the court until it’s time to go home, they are so excited! And the excitement is extremely contagious.
A conversation I had with one of the athletes sitting at a picnic table while waiting for the awards ceremony at a tournament, is one of the most enjoyable conversations I have ever had. This young man was so wise. I remember wishing I could record his words. Everything about him, every word he spoke, was directly from his heart. And he played that way too.
So as I read the line above now, I know the true meaning of “inclusion of all people”. I did Special Olympics no favors. By being allowed to participate with these amazing people, Special Olympics did me a huge favor. One that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. What an incredible experience.
If you have some spare time now or in the future, and you’d like to volunteer with the Special Olympics organization, I highly recommend it. They love their volunteers! For more information please click on these links. Be sure to watch the slide show to see what it looks like to play from the heart. Enjoy!
Amen! I agree completely. They love you as a coach and they too were lucky to have you step in. These kids/adults just bring a smile to your face every time you see them. As soon as I spot one, it brings an instant smile to my face. A smile that now-a-days doesn’t come easy, but I’m so grateful that they continue to touch my heart in this special way.
Aw thanks, Cristina! I had a blast. <3