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Unsung heroes in the Philippine Special Olympics Team

By Nicholai R. Roska
PhilBoxing.com
Sun, 02 Aug 2015




Photos by Kathleen Mae Roska.

LOS ANGELES -- Having witnessed the unconditional love and support of Team Philippines in these Special Olympics here in Los Angeles, it is only fair to cover the people behind the scenes who have put in the hard work to make this campaign a success.

An advocate for her pupil's education, coach Delia focuses more on the athletes' abilities rather than their disabilities. Maria Delia Mi?oza (left, top photo) in real life, coach Delia is a saint in training, acting as parent slash coach slash teacher to her athletes.

Win or lose, she puts a smile on her face, secure in the knowledge that her athletes' put forth their best efforts. She credits many people behind her, including superintendent Virginia Zapanta of the Department of Education in Mandaue City and mayor Jonas Cortes for his continued support for the Special Education program.

The executive director for Special Olympics Philippines, she is also its biggest cheerleader. She darts from one event to another, cheering her lungs out for our swimmers, soccer players and gymnasts.


Kaye Chastine Samson (R).

Kaye Chastine Samson's love for our athletes knows no boundaries. She is the first to congratulate them in a win and the first to provide comfort when they struggle. Her passion for her work is unbridled, and though the festivities have come to a near conclusion, she'll be back to work in no time, nurturing and improving the Philippine Special Olympics program.

His face was all over the Filipino Channel during the Pacquiao versus Mayweather tiff, providing viewers unfettered access during Pacman's months long training in the City of Angels.

Journalist Steve Angeles is back in action, this time chronicling a noble sporting event for TV giant ABS-CBN. An indefatigable one-man crew, Steve is covering the Special Olympics like a warm blanket, taking us behind the doors to the athletes' private lives and their families.


Steve Angeles (L).

Through the power of television and the various social media platforms, Steve is shining a light on the 35 Pinoy athletes participating in the 2015 World Games.

The Pinoy volunteers, meanwhile, have provided a community environment for the athletes and their families in these Special Olympics, making sure they have a home away from home.

Some of these volunteers take time from work to be a fan in the stands, be an usher, or be a part of the medical team. A workforce that is solid like a rock just means we are going to be ready for the games in 2019.


Pinoy volunteers.


Click here to view a list of other articles written by Nicholai R. Roska.

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