I was up in Prince George over the weekend judging Special Olympics rhythmic gymnastics. I was very happy that I went – it motivates me and gives me new ideas on how I can help these athletes and coaches. Furthermore, the competition ran on time and we managed to give encouragements and ideas to the coaches and athletes towards their next target.
I withdrew from the active Special Olympics judging pool since my daughter became the head coach for Burnaby Special O rhythmic gymnastics. I know a lot of people trust me not to be biased, however, I do not want to set a precedence. To me, maintaining that neutrality in the judging panel is important for the sport – it makes judging pleasant and even when judges don’t see eye to eye, we know there is no hidden agenda. For this competition, since nobody else can go and I am not affiliated with anyone up there in Prince George, I volunteered.
Watching a Special Olympics event is uplifting and therapeutic for those of us that feel burnt out with all the politics and events surrounding our work or sport. At this competition, one of the athletes fell down three separate times, had to be helped to get back up but continued and finished the routine with a proud smile – it brought tears to our eyes. We found out later that the gymnast had cerebral palsy and despite her challenges never gave up since she was a young child – she is now a grandmother.
Special O coaches are pure volunteers. They are not paid in any way – not even gas money to the gym. Most of them learn gymnastics while they are volunteering. However, what they lack in sport specific expertise, they made that up by having a big heart, they believe in the Special Olympics movement and most important of all, they believe they can make a difference to someone.
Everyone of us have challenges (or disabilities) in different ways. Sometimes the fear of failure or fear of how others see us stopped us from trying out new things. If we can only learn a lesson from anyone of these athletes and/or coaches – just go out and try your very best, others will respect you for your effort.
Exercise:
Rhythmic Gymnastics, Kung Fu, my education and work in Hong Kong and Canada shaped me to become who I am. I believe in giving back and that is why I volunteer in Special Olympics.
– I believe that you can learn from almost anyone. Do you? Give example about how you have learned from the least expected source.
– Someone, some activities or some events may have made a difference in your life. What was it? What is your way of giving back to the community?
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