Behind every Special Olympics athlete who steps into the pool, onto the court, or up to the starting line, there's a coach who knows the sport and knows how to bring out the best in their athlete. An expert twice over. Special Olympics North America has recognized seven of those coaches for their impact on Special Olympics athletes across the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. An impressive field of 17 coaches was submitted for recognition as one of Special Olympics North America's 2025 Outstanding Coaches, making the selection committee's job no small task.
"Every year, our athletes are changed by the more than 96,000 coaches in North America who show up not just to teach a skill, but to believe in them," said Gary Cimaglia, Vice President of Sports, Special Olympics North America. "This year's honorees represent the very best of volunteer coaching and the commitment, patience, and heart it takes to show up for athletes season after season."
Coach of the Year recognizes coaches who exemplify the true ideals of the profession in local programs, with separate honors for community-based and school-based (Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools®) coaching.
James Winnen has served as a Special Olympics coach in Arkansas for the last 19 years. He has coached swimming athletes with Team Arkansas at the USA Games as well as with Special Olympics USA at the Special Olympics World Games. He is known for creating an environment where athletes grow both athletically and personally. Winnen has continually invested in his own professional growth, ensuring that he brings the best knowledge and skills to his athletes. He maintains certifications as a Water Safety Instructor, Lifeguard, Lifeguard Instructor, and Michael Phelps Foundation Champion Coach, in addition to being a certified sports clinician for swimming.
I believe in strengthening my coaching ability because my athletes deserve the very best guidance I can provide. Special Olympics grants me opportunities to ensure that I bring both knowledge and passion to every practice and competition.
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. Popel 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.
Rising Star honors coaches early in their careers who have already made a significant impact locally, regionally, or nationally.
Courtney Heller has impacted Special Olympics Wisconsin by coaching Unified basketball at Elmbrook Transition Center over the last year, but her involvement with Special Olympics goes back to high school when she was a member of her own school’s Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools® club. Heller prioritizes holistic development, supporting athletes in academics, communication, emotional regulation, social skills, independent living, and physical fitness. Her coaching goes beyond sport performance, helping athletes develop confidence, independence, and lifelong skills that contribute to meaningful lives.
Sydney Green has coached Special Olympics Arkansas athletes for the past three years across multiple sports, including softball. She has quickly built a reputation for energy, reliability, and strong relationships with athletes and families. By tailoring her coaching approach to individual needs, she not only improved athletic performance but also fostered confidence, independence, and excitement for participation. Green’s ability to celebrate small goals and progress along the way has driven team improvement, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and growth.
The Annette K. Lynch Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes 20-plus years of sustained coaching contributions within Special Olympics.
Mary Fiegel was a pillar in Wisconsin's athletic community, faithfully leading her athletes for 31 years. Attending the first Special Olympics Games in 1968 created a lifelong commitment to the organization and she brought that inspiration and vision forward to all future interactions. She served as a coach, mentor, and clinician across more than 10 sports, helping train the next generation of coaches before recently passing away, leaving an incredible legacy of inclusion, excellence and dedication.
Every moment with Special Olympics makes me smile and fills my heart with undeniable joy.
Michele Carmichael has volunteered with Special Olympics Northern California for the last 56 years, coaching swimming and Alpine skiing. Michelle’s holistic approach integrates athletic training with personal development activities such as goal setting, journaling, and motivational exercises, ensuring that each athlete reaches their full potential on and off the field. Under her guidance, athletes are well-prepared for competitions at local, state, national, and international levels. She instills the values of ethical behavior and sportsmanship, ensuring that her athletes compete with fairness, respect, and grace, regardless of the outcome.
Jerry Bridges has served as a Special Olympics Arkansas coach for 47 years, leading more than 10 sports, coaching athletes at four USA and six World Games. A longtime coach, educator, and program leader, Jerry has spent his career ensuring athletes have access to meaningful sports experiences and opportunities to grow in confidence and ability. Jerry’s influence extends beyond athletes to coaches, volunteers, and communities across Arkansas. His leadership has helped build sustainable Special Olympics programs while mentoring generations of athletes and coaches.
Each SONA Outstanding Coach winner represents the dedication, passion, and excellence exhibited by their peers around the world. Learn more about becoming a coach.
