By McKenna Robbins
After 15 years of being a Special Olympics athlete, Jayson Jesperson will be taking his love for golf to the next level. He has competed in local and state SOSC competitions before, such as the Fall Games, but will now be competing in golf at the World Games in Berlin, Germany with lots of support. His dad, Jay will be there to support him as his caddy. The duo will have 13 of their closest family and friends joining them abroad to cheer on Jayson.
Since Jayson was ten years old, he has had a love for golf. He was inspired by golfer Jordan Spieth but also his family and friends who golfed. He started off going to summer golf camps that helped him learn the basics, as well as skills he still uses today. Since then, his whole life has revolved around golf. Not only does he play the sport he loves every day, but he also works at a golf course. To prepare for the World Games, Jayson trains daily and has the support of multiple coaches.
When finding out that they would be traveling to Berlin, Germany, Jayson and Jay were “super excited” and “ecstatic”. Jay mentioned that it means a lot because of their family’s history in Southern California, and this gives Jayson an opportunity to represent Southern California and Team USA. Jayson also wants to be the one to bring home the second gold medal in golf for San Diego. Not only is he looking forward to competing and meeting new athletes from around the world, he also can’t wait to try German food.
Special Olympics has been a way for Jayson to make friends and have something to look forward to. It also has given him a boost to his confidence and pride, as well as motivation to work towards goals while strengthening the father-son bond. Jayson wants everyone to know that when playing golf, “just have fun and enjoy it!”
Learn more about the 2023 World Games in Berlin at specialolympicsusa.org.