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July 2003 Levon, Robert, Miriam, Robbie, Leslie, Gordon, Shawn, Jill The meeting began with a self-introduction by each member. The athletes stated their names and the sports that they participate in: Levon: Softball; Floor Hockey; Five and Ten Pin Bowling; Soccer. Robert: Five and Ten Pin Bowling. Miriam: Baseball; Floor Hockey; Swimming; Ten Pin Bowling; Baseball. Robbie: Swimming; Floor Hockey; Baseball. Leslie: Alpine Skiing; Swimming; Soccer; Track and Field; Softball. Gordon: Baseball; Five Pin Bowling; Soccer. Shawn: Floor Hockey; Soccer. Athletes also discussed the length of time that they have participated in Special Olympics, and three things about themselves (hobbies etc.). The athletes were thanked for coming out. We discussed the fact that each athlete present plays a valuable role by participating in this committee. Athletes were excited to have a meeting where they could bring up important issues and concerns while also representing athletes within the programs they were involved in. The athletes felt free to discuss opinions, ideas, and concerns which relate to their programs. In doing so, they will be participating in making important decisions with respect to Special Olympics programs. The agenda for the meeting was briefly discussed. The committee decided that they wanted to get down to business and talk about the issues facing themselves and their fellow athletes. Tournaments and Athlete #’s: 1. The athletes discussed a lack of D players for the Toronto East Express Soccer club. Their concern was that in some tournaments, there aren’t enough D players to form a D team. As a result, D players have been playing on other teams, thus placing a strain on coaches and athletes of B and C levels. 2. There is a need for more players on the Grand Ravine Wolves baseball team. This team also needs more B’s and C’s. 3. There is a need for more tournaments in all clubs. Many clubs don’t get the chance to compete in tournaments. Cutbacks/Finances/Fundraising: 4. Committee members recognize that cutbacks in funds in Special Olympics have resulted in fewer tournaments, and the need to use and maintain older uniforms and equipment. The athletes mentioned that sometimes they have to share uniforms, or return them at the end of the season. Some athletes did not mind this. One committee member suggested that athletes may want to chip in for new uniforms if necessary. 5. Ontario Special Olympics money that is obtained from the government should go fairly to all regions. Additionally, we need to recognize that Toronto has three head offices for Special Olympics, and that money should be allocated fairly to each. 6. The importance of continuous fundraising was addressed as well as gaining more sponsors and confronting the government about cutbacks. 7. School fees are making it harder for athletes to play sports. Increased rates for practices have resulted in athletes having less money to pursue other activities. 8. Not all athletes can afford the cost of attending tournaments. Sometimes an athlete may get to a tournament, and not be able to afford the added costs (such as meals). 9. Committee members support athletes paying in installments or waived fees for those who cannot afford to participate in practices or tournaments. Media/Exposure: 10. Region 11 needs more media coverage (interviews with athletes; letting the public know what Special Olympics is all about). 11. Members would like televised tournaments. 12. Athletes feel that other regions/areas (ex. Brampton) should have the chance to participate in half-time shows for the Toronto Lynx Soccer Club. 13. Members feel that is important to get the message about Special Olympics Athletes out there. Members want the public to know that they are contributing members of society who have positive and strong roles within society. The media should portray Special Olympics athletes as serious athletes. • Athletes expressed interest in going directly to organizations that support people with intellectual disabilities and doing presentations to get the word out about Special Olympics and recruit new athletes. • To promote a positive image of athletes and break down stereotypes, one member felt that some athletes should get more serious about exercising and/or training for their sports. Athletes and others associated with Special Olympics need to encourage more physical health (exercise; nutrition). Athletes need to put forth their best efforts. • The talents of athletes (outside of Special Olympics) should be also be showcased in the public eye. Other Important Issues: 14. The Special Olympics postponed two tournaments due to SARS. Athletes expressed disappointment in having to end their seasons early, especially when they were prepared to attend the tournaments. 15. The issue of uniforms was raised. Sometimes uniforms are uncomfortable (black pants on a hot day) but without the uniforms, an athlete may be disqualified. Most committee members supported the fact that the uniforms make athletes look more professional. 16. Members expressed how poor sportsmanship affects them. They feel that all athletes need to refrain from swearing and physical/verbal violence as a way of dealing with their anger. 17. Athletes expressed concern for more cultural diversity within the Special Olympics. 18. Athletes are thankful for the good friends that support them (ex. Olympic athletes). 19. Members continue to challenge Special Olympics staff to a game! 20. Athletes discussed the many leadership roles (committees etc.) that they participate in. These include: i. task force committees (ex. Athlete Empowerment Committee) ii. Athlete speaker iii. Member of committee of province-wide code of conduct; iv. Coach. v. Master of Ceremonies (Canadian Special Olympics Sports Awards) vi. Public speaking vii. Input council viii. Follow-up training (in dealing with the media) ix. Represented Special Olympics on Breakfast Television x. Volunteer opportunities (ex. Habitat for Humanity; Special Olympics). In closing, committee members were thanked again for their participation. The members were reminded to talk about what they discussed with their fellow athletes and to continue to bring any concerns/ideas/questions to the next meeting. The next meeting will take place on Monday August 11th, 2003. Home || Sports || Events || Volunteering || Donations || Links || Contact Us |
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