Special Olympics Athlete Leadership allow athletes to explore opportunities in roles previously considered “non-traditional.” Such participation might come in the form of an athlete serving on the Board of Directors or local organizing committee; or it might find an athlete as a spokesperson, team captain, coach or official. Participation in Athlete Leadership may be in addition to or in place of participation in traditional athlete roles.
A program or initiative could be considered an Athlete Leadership Program if it:
- Allows athletes to choose how they will participate (i.e., selecting their sport or deciding to become a coach)
- Encourages athletes to serve in meaningful leadership roles other than or in addition to that of “competitor”
- Provides training for existing leadership as they welcome and encourage athletes in these new roles
Athlete Leadership Initiatives
Below are some initiatives that Special Olympics programs around the world have already instituted. We are proud to say that we have athletes in Oklahoma that fit every category listed below.
- Athletes on the State Board of Directors
- Athletes on Board Committees
- Athletes on Area Management Teams
- Athletes on Games Committees
- Athletes on Games Evaluation Teams
- Global Messengers (spokespersons)
- Athlete sessions at Leadership Conferences
- Athletes as Coaches
- Athletes as Officials
- Athletes as Volunteers
- Athletes as Donors
- Athletes employed by Special Olympics
Active Global Messengers
Amy Wollmershauser, Tulsa
Ashley Kohlun, Norman
Billy Veytovich, Morris
Chris Paynter, Edmond
Heather Hancock, Oklahoma City
Jonathan Parkhurst, Edmond
Katy Lew, Tulsa
Contact Us
Are you interested in becoming a Special Olympics Oklahoma Global Messenger?
For more information contact Derek Cain.