Jessica Simon, Special Olympics Santa Barbara swimmer will depart on Friday for the 2010 Special Olympics National Games, held at the University of Nebraska. 13 athletes from Southern California will compete from July 18th-23rd. More than 3,000 total athletes from 48 states will participate in the competition, making it the largest event ever in Nebraska history.
“I couldn’t be more proud of Jessica and this wonderful opportunity that she has earned. I have coached Jessica for the past seven years and have watched her grow personally and improve as a swimmer. The national games are just one of the many accomplishments that Jessica has gained through her hard work and dedication.” says Janet Crane, Jessica’s coach.
Janet is a volunteer swimming and bowling coach, and assistant manager of Old Navy.
To qualify for nationals, athletes are required to have won a gold medal in their event at the Special Olympic 2009 Summer Games held in Long Beach. Names of the gold winners are then placed in a blind draw, and a certain number selected at random by Rafer Johnson, Olympic Gold Medalist in the Decathlon, and founder of Special Olympics Southern California. “It was a big surprise to be chosen,” says Simon. “I’m really excited for Nationals.” She says her biggest inspiration is Michael Phelps. “I want to be the next Michael Phelps,” says Simon. “I really want to be able to go to the World Games.”
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Santa Barbara athlete Jessica Simon. She is enthusiastic, a leader of her team, and is dedicated to the athlete moto, “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” stated Sara Spataro, Regional Director. Jessica and her coach Janet Crane are focused on Jessica achieving her personal best. Jessica will be competing in the 50 and 100 meter freestyle and 50M breast stroke.
For many of the athletes, this will mark the first time that they spend a significant time away from home. Athletes need to be able to manage the travel and have attended orientation sessions and group practices in Long Beach, conducted by Special Olympics Southern California National Team coaches. Jessica’s mother, CathyAnn Simon, Santa Barbara Tennis Patrons Executive Director, “We are so proud of Jessica and everything she has accomplished. Special Olympics has been there with her since she was in preschool. We thank all of you for all your support and love.”
For further information about the National Games go to http://www.sosc.org/nationalgames, to make a donation on behalf of Jessica and support Special Olympics athletes, contact the Santa Barbara Special Olympics office at 884-1516 or [email protected]
