On June 8, 2024, at the Summer Games Opening Ceremony held on the Cal State Long Beach track, the Coaches of the Season for the 2024 Spring season were announced, celebrating their exceptional contributions to their teams and the broader Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to these outstanding coaches, whose unwavering dedication to the athletes and remarkable efforts in promoting inclusion have not only shaped the futures of many athletes and families, but also set a great example within the Special Olympics community. Their commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment is truly commendable, and we are proud to honor their achievements. Thank you coaches, for all you do!
Congratulations to the 2024 Spring Coaches of the Season
ATHLETICS:
Lisa Campbell
San Luis Obispo
Lisa is a dedicated and passionate volunteer who has stepped up in the Lompoc community to be a leading force for recruitment, outreach, and programming. Lisa has dedicated countless amounts of time and energy towards the growth of the Lompoc programs and is even beginning the process of becoming a volunteer Local Program Coordinator! Lisa goes above and beyond to provide the athletes as many opportunities as possible. Lisa is a leading example of what it means to be a superstar volunteer for SOSC.
BASKETBALL
Felix Berkan
LA County South
Felix’s dedication, passion, and coaching skills make him a exemplary coach. As a basketball coach for the Cerritos Heat, Felix has shown unwavering commitment to the athletes’ growth and significantly impacted the SOSC community over the past two years. Felix excels at creating an inclusive environment, seamlessly integrating new team members, and fostering confidence and camaraderie. His personalized guidance ensures each athlete reaches their full potential, making him a stellar coach.
BOCCE
Kathy (Corky) O’Rourke
LA County North
Corky has been a coach with SOSC for many years. She has committed much time and effort towards helping a smaller community program like Northern Los Angeles County run. This year, Corky found herself not having enough athletes signed up for the bocce season in Glendale, so she made an effort to actively recruit some track athletes to participate. She recruited enough people to have routine practices, and her team made it to the Santa Clarita Valley Bocce Competition, where they placed 2nd! Corky shows love for the sport and the athletes. The athletes respect her; they have the opportunity to learn a new sport because of Corky’s determination. Corky exemplifies the qualities of a great coach, and she will be greatly missed as she moves out of state next year!
FLAG FOOTBALL
Joe Carrillo
Orange County
Joe Carrillo is the epitome of what it means to volunteer for SOSC. Joe’s passion for sports and the athletes shines no matter what field his team plays on. Joe is well-loved by Orange County staff, athletes, and parents alike for his dedication, hard work, and commitment. Joe has been a coach for several sports for over a decade’s time, working alongside fellow coach Tim Stuart, who describes Joe as his “right hand man” when it comes to everything Laguna Hills Hawks. Joe is always eager to mentor new coaches and athletes.
SWIMMING
Kellie Paoli
Santa Barbara County
Kellie joined SOSC this year as a new coach who moved from the bay area where she coached swimming alongside her mother. Kellie quickly became the rock of the team, someone extremely reliable. Her easy-going attitude makes her a favorite amongst the athletes and she quickly bonded with them. As the season progressed, she took on greater responsibilities and was very enthusiastic to attend the Summer Games with Santa Barbara County this year!