The Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) Fall Games were set to deliver two days of spirited competition at Fountain Valley Sports Park and David L. Baker Golf Course. Athletes, coaches, volunteers, sponsors, and families eagerly anticipated softball and golf matchups. But after nearly a week of heavy rainfall, the city closed all fields, and the golf course became unsafe with multiple holes flooded. Yet, in true Special Olympics spirit, the games didn’t stop – they transformed.
Festival Fun
Athletes gathered at the Fountain Valley Sports Park Recreation Center for a vibrant festival filled with interactive games, music, and activities. It was a chance to relax, connect, and celebrate the community despite the weather challenges.
Healthy Athletes Screenings
The Recreation Center also hosted Healthy Athletes, offering free health screenings in seven disciplines: Fit Feet, FUNfitness, Strong Minds, Healthy Hearing, Health Promotions, Opening Eyes, and Special Smiles. With more than 900 screenings performed, volunteer clinicians ensured athletes left stronger and healthier, reinforcing a commitment to overall well-being.
Delegation Activities
At the Anaheim Marriott, delegations enjoyed indoor fun with cornhole, ring toss, tic-tac-toe, and board games. A highlight was the Power Up workout with Coach Max, which kept spirits high and energy flowing.
Evening Celebration
The day concluded with a heartfelt Delegation Dinner and Athlete Celebration at the Anaheim Marriott. Athletes shared laughter, danced to music, and shopped at Rafer’s Boutique, which offered unique items during the evening festivities.
Honoring Excellence
At the Delegation Dinner, we also had the opportunity to recognize the outstanding contributions of volunteers who go above and beyond for the athletes.
Golisano Health Leadership Award
This award is highest honor from Special Olympics Health, supported by the Golisano Foundation, and celebrates exceptional efforts to improve health and well-being for people with intellectual disabilities.
Dr. Eunice Myung Lee – Opening Eyes Clinical Director
For nearly 30 years, Dr. Lee has been a driving force in Healthy Athletes. Starting as a volunteer in 1998, she transformed Opening Eyes into a program that provides quality vision care worldwide. As Clinical Director and Regional Advisor, she’s trained hundreds of volunteers, built sustainable care systems, and inspired future doctors. Her leadership at events like the 2015 World Games and her global mentorship reflect her unwavering commitment to health equity and inclusion.
2025 Fall Coaches of the Season
Jesse Garcia – Golf, Region 5
Founder of El Cajon’s golf program, Jesse brings patience, positivity, and creativity to coaching. His leadership spans multiple sports, leaving a lasting impact on athletes and the community.
Chris Ines – Soccer, Region 1
A four-season coach and teacher, Chris champions inclusion and community engagement, forging partnerships with local law enforcement and parks departments. She creates opportunities for athletes to thrive on and off the field.
Gustavo “Gus” Martinez – Softball, Region 2
A 25-year volunteer and LAPD officer, Gus coaches multiple sports, mentors athletes, and supports fundraising events. His respect, dedication, and willingness to take on any challenge make him an invaluable leader.
Michelle Jones – Tennis, Region 3
When her team lost its coach, Michelle stepped up to keep the program alive. A longtime volunteer and fundraiser, she embodies dedication and heart, ensuring athletes always have support and opportunity.
Diane Dantas – Volleyball, Region 2
For over a decade, Diane has coached multiple sports with kindness and resilience, even through personal loss. She fosters teamwork, friendships, and a safe, supportive environment, inspiring all who know her.
A Community That Shines Through Challenges
Thanks to the quick work of athletes, families, partners, sponsors, staff, and over 380 dedicated volunteers, the weekend became a celebration of resilience, health, and joy.
Special Olympics is more than sports – it’s about creating moments that matter. And this weekend proved that when the games stop, the heart of the movement beats even stronger.
