Athlete Leadership Programs
Athlete Leadership exists to empower the most important people in our movement…. The athletes. It creates opportunities to develop and demonstrate leadership skills. We also provide athletes with the tools to utilize their voices to effect change inside and outside Special Olympics to help create inclusive communities all over the world.
Athlete Leadership Council (ALC)
A dedicated and talented group of Athlete leaders has been meeting since 2013 every month to share ideas, concerns, make recommendations, and provide feedback on events and competitions.
Athletes as Board Members
Three members of the ALC also serve on the Special Olympics South Dakota Board of Directors.
Southeast –
Northeast – Trevor Hayes
Black Hills – David Tanner
Law Enforcement Torch Run – Jaren Keiser
Meet Scott Cain
Recently, Johna had the pleasure of watching Scott officiate at our SE Area Bocce Tournament. She knew Scott as a Sioux Falls Fireworks Athlete, so she was a little surprised to see him in this role.
Scott officiated with an air of confidence. He had complete command of his court, and it was immediately evident he knew what he was doing.
It wasn’t just his competence that caught her attention; it was also his demeanor. He encouraged the competitors and cheered almost every ball. His energy, the smile on his face, his words of encouragement— he was having a blast!
According to Cain, “I participate in Special Olympics Basketball, Soccer, Softball, and Track, but this is my second year officiating Bocce. To me, officiating is more fun than playing!”
Johna complimented Scott on his enthusiasm. He replied, “When I’m on the other side of the ropes playing sports, it means a lot to me when officials and spectators cheer and are loud. This is my way of leading the way and giving back.”
She thanked Scott for volunteering his time and talents. Through his always-present grin, Scott replied, “Teamwork makes the dream work!”
For Special Olympics to truly become a movement led by athletes, they must be empowered to share their abilities, experiences, and knowledge. Thank you, Scott, for doing just that!