Director’s Corner

New Partnerships Around Every Corner

With all the recent focus on the collaboration of the PGA and LIV Golf at the super-elite level, I want to devote a few words to another group using the links: Special Olympic Athletes. These athletes are persons with intellectual disabilities who compete. They find success, joy, and friendship by participating in various sports, including golf, softball and soccer.

Years ago, I taught at a vocational school. That experience exposed me to Special Olympics, but I was unaware of their golf competition until I met Jim (not his real name) at a local Panera’s.

Jim sported a Special Olympics windbreaker and appeared to be about 45 years old. Logically, I assumed he was one of the administrators but a brief conversation revealed the unexpected: he was one of the athletes. “Special Olympic Athlete Leader” was his official title.

“I encourage the younger ones,” he said. “One of my main jobs is teaching younger athletes to shift focus from being number one to focusing on giving it their all – whether in practice or in competition. And most importantly, I teach them to make friends. Sports come and go but friendships last a lifetime.” “But my age is getting to me. I ache after each basketball practice, and now I have to strain different muscles helping the athletes prepare for golf.”

My ears caught that familiar word. “Golf?” I asked.

“Yeah, we’ll be training every week in preparation for the tournaments. My sore muscles complain but it is all good. I help the young athletes, encouraging them and setting an example.”

Golf was established at Special Olympics in 1995. Grouping participants by age, gender, and ability gives everyone a reasonable chance to win. Jim’s work pushes each athlete to strive for their best.

I have focused on various individuals in previous columns. Each highlighted person is unique and makes a unique contribution to our great industry. I now proudly add Jim to that list.

Tom Tracy, Ph.D.

VTC Executive Director