Thursday, June 20, 2013

Jessie's Blog: Athlete Representative Introduction

Hello, Here's a quick introduction: Jessie Salness is Lebanon County's new athlete representative. She'll be blogging about all things Lebanon County, Special Olympics, and athlete leadership! Keep an eye out for new blogs. Welcome Jessie! - Jackie Gostomski, Web Coordinator


Hello Everyone:
My name is Jessie Salness, and I am the newly appointed Lebanon County Athlete Representative, as well as a Track and Field and Powerlifting athlete.  I joined the Lebanon County division of SOPA in the Spring of 2012, and I wanted to tell you a few things that I think are remarkable about SOPA.
I love that we come together to practice and compete as a team, even when we are involved in sports that are often viewed as more individual, solitary sports. It is wonderful that we support each other and cheer each other on to do the best we can, and we often go way beyond what we thought was possible!  I know that I have lifted more weight and have run faster than ever before, and that hearing the cheers of my fellow athletes helps push me to succeed!
Week after week, we show up for practice, try our best, and encourage our fellow athletes, even when we may be frustrated or find things difficult.  There are easier things we could be doing that don't take as much effort, but our effort and perseverance pays off, especially when we compete in our various sporting events!
I often recall our S.O. Oath when competing, and want to remind my fellow athletes:
"Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."
I am proud to be a Special Olympics athlete, and especially proud to be the Lebanon County SOPA Athlete Representative.
Sincerely,
Jessie Salness                                                                        
Special Olympics PA Lebanon County
Athlete Representative

(717) 272-1332 (Mailbox 8)