In 1991, Gail Whalen and Sandy Schwartz were invited to a Special Olympics softball practice by a friend. Thirty-three years later, they’re still attending practices—not just for softball but for golf as well.
“After that first day, we were hooked,” said Gail and Sandy.
Over the past three decades, Gail and Sandy have formed countless connections with athletes, families, and fellow volunteers. They have not only coached and participated in softball, golf, and soccer but also served as Global Messenger mentors, amplifying our athletes’ voices.
They are a cornerstone of the Area 26 program, and anyone who knows them can’t help but praise their dedication.
“While they hold high expectations for the athletes, they never add unnecessary stress,” said Robin Utz, who oversees the golf program where Gail and Sandy are Unified partners.
“Gail and Sandy have long championed the elevation of our athletes’ voices. As Global Messenger mentors, coaches, Unified partners, and donors, they exude positivity, and we are deeply grateful for all they’ve done to advance our mission,” shared David Thomason, President of Special Olympics Virginia.
This weekend, Gail and Sandy will be competing as Unified partners in Level 2 golf. If you catch them on the course or meet them off it, you’ll quickly see that they embody the spirit of volunteerism and competition within the Special Olympics community. And while our athletes are lucky to have them, Gail and Sandy would say they’re the lucky ones to be part of this incredible community.
