Efrem Popel has been one of Illinois' top Special Olympics coaches over the last nine years. He is the head coach at JN Thorp Elementary School in Chicago, blending 20-plus years in education and athletics to build confidence in his student-athletes both in school and in competition. Efrem regularly seeks out opportunities to advance his skills, learning both practical strategies for developing athletes and gaining a deep understanding of sports rules and expectations, ensuring that every student receives informed, confident, and supportive guidance.
