The 2024 Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) Fall Games Championship, held on November 16 and 17 in Fountain Valley, brought together athletes from across the region for a weekend of competition and community. Over 700 athletes competed in five dynamic sports: golf, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball . Each event showcased the perseverance, skill, and teamwork of athletes with intellectual disabilities as they pursued their personal bests and celebrated inclusion.
In addition to the thrilling competitions, the weekend featured 1038 Healthy Athletes screenings, where athletes received free health screenings and resources to support their overall well-being.
“With free health screenings for athletes in Healthy Hearing, Special Smiles, Strong Minds, Fun Fitness, and Fit Feet, Special Olympics continues to make sure that all of the athletes that are involved in the organization have the opportunity to learn about their own health and how they can take care of it so that they can continue to live a healthy lifestyle on and off the playing field” said Global Health Messenger and SOSC athlete, Michael Leon.
The Festival added to the excitement, offering a vibrant atmosphere with food and activities for families and fans. Demonstrations by Young Athletes kept younger participants engaged in fun, interactive games.
With the generous help of 950 volunteers, the Fall Games not only highlighted athletic achievement but also fostered a spirit of unity, health, and opportunity for all. Behind the incredible performances of the athletes were the 342 coaches at Fall Games who guided, mentored, and inspired our athletes every step of the way.
Let’s meet the Coaches of the 2024 Fall Season!
- 🏐 Ticky Gorin – Orange County, Volleyball
As the Local Program Coordinator of the Laguna Hills Hawks, Ticky is the heart of our volunteer team. Her passion for volleyball inspires athletes to thrive under her leadership. Always willing to help other counties, she goes above and beyond in her commitment to both the sport and player development. Ticky’s dedication as a volunteer and impactful leadership make her truly deserving of this award. She embodies everything we value in a coach.
- ⚽ Devon Pfeil – Orange County, Soccer
Devon and her husband Nick have been soccer coaches for 7 years. Devon’s talent for recruiting dedicated coaches has helped build a close-knit, family-like team. As head coach, she brings her experience as a UCI college athlete to run efficient, adaptable practices tailored to various skill levels. Despite a demanding job and raising a two-year-old, Devon always stays positive and gives generously of her time. She genuinely cares for our athletes, nurturing them both personally and athletically.
- 🥎 Menah Martinez – Los Angeles County, Softball
Menah has volunteered with Torrance South Bay and SOSC for 20 years, becoming head coach of basketball and softball in 2016. Over the years, her dedication has helped local team, assistant coach and volunteer numbers grow. As a parent of a child with Down syndrome, she’s also a mentor to athletes, coaches, and parents of special needs children. Despite a busy schedule, she generously gives her time to ensure the success of SOSC athletes in Torrance South Bay.
- 🎾 Dave Florhe – San Diego County, Tennis
Dave is an exceptional tennis coach who has greatly impacted the San Pasqual Racqueteers program over the past 8 years. His leadership, dedication, and passion have helped the team grow consistently. Dave creates a positive, inclusive environment that attracts new players and encourages current ones to stay. His coaching style is both proactive and patient, always seeking ways to improve players’ skills while supporting all levels. Dave’s commitment has been key to his team’s success.
- ⛳ Tom Garrard – San Luis Obispo County, Golf
Tom is a dedicated volunteer with a deep passion for SOSC. As the UCS liaison for Lompoc High School and a lead volunteer in the Lompoc golf program, he creates a positive experience for all participants. Tom is an outstanding coach and promoted two golfers to Level 2 play this year. He has built a strong partnership between the high school golf team and the SOSC golf program in Lompoc, inspiring his athletes to engage more in UCS and community sports.
Thank You, Coaches!
A huge thank you to these amazing coaches for their dedication and passion! Your leadership creates an environment where athletes thrive and build lifelong memories.
Want to be part of the team? The best coaches and volunteers are enthusiastic, patient, and flexible. At SOSC, we provide training on sports rules and regulations, but the real success comes from you. Your attitude is what makes the athlete’s experience truly special.
Ready to get involved? Visit sosc.org/becomeacoach to learn how you can become a coach or team volunteer!
#WeAreSOSC #BecomeACoach