Randy James has been a Special Olympics coach for the past 31 years – since before many of his athletes were born.
His efforts with this organization are worthy of a Local Hero award.
Randy coaches floor hockey, softball, and track and field. He holds a National Coaching Certification in Athletics (Level 3) and Special Olympics (Level 2).
Randy has demonstrated a long-term commitment to working with Special Olympians. When he completed a master’s degree at Royal Roads University he chose to do a practicum and project with Special Olympics International in Washington, D.C. From this experience he brought knowledge and skills back to the local organization. In 2005 he was actively involved with bringing the BCSO Summer Games to the Comox Valley. He is usually seen with Special Olympics team members during the annual Torch Run (RCMP) or doing hot dog sales or car washes.
In 2015, during the City of Courtenay Centennial, Randy was recognized as a Citizen of the Century for his contributions to supporting individuals with special needs. Athletes with special needs are beginning to get acknowledgement because of the dedication of coaches like Randy.
In 2017, Randy was instrumental in the introduction of a 3-on-3 basketball tournament specially designed for student athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Of the many endorsements received during the nomination period, one filed by Special Olympian Max Porcher sums up Randy’s dedication and leadership qualities.
“Randy’s divine display of leadership goes much without notice. He not only works incredibly hard with the athletes he coaches, including myself, but also with Special O BC as a whole. He has persevered very strongly to making Special O the best it can be, even if it has meant dedicating several hundred hours to what he may call his pristine passion of a craft. I can sense that much heart goes into what Randy teaches and educates upon. I am sincerely grateful to be coached by him. He is the best and is worth voting for.”
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