June 25, 2009 7:42 AM
Coach Dan Dillon - Special Olympics hero
For six years, four Curtis kids - Jonny, Jesse, Daniel and Justin - have been privileged to have an incredibly generous man as their Special Olympics basketball coach.
The program he runs in Loudoun is huge - and serves individuals of all ages. The program also attracts many wonderful volunteers who reflect Coach Dillon's superb leadership.
I remember when we started the program, I asked Coach Dillon how he got involved in Special Olympics - did he grow up with a sibling with special needs? No he didn't have a personal connection at all. But as he was growing up his family emphasized serving the community.
It is so edifying to see him honored as Special Olympics Coach of the Year - and in yesterday's LoudounExtra (the Washington Post, btw, is doing a superb job covering Loudoun County):
Up Close: Special Olympics Coach Dan Dillon
By Ryan Lytle
Tuesday, June 23, 2009Dan Dillon of Leesburg works as a basketball coach and program coordinator for the Loudoun County Special Olympics and was recently selected as 2008 Virginia Special Olympics Coach of the Year.
This father of three began working with the program over 25 years ago and his efforts have been credited for its growth.
In this e-mail interview, Dillon talks about his work with the Special Olympics and the joys of helping others.
Read interview here.
See more pictures here.
We are doubly happy to now belong to the same church as Coach Dillon. To think how his family taught their children not just to talk the talk, but to walk the walk is very inspiring to me as a parent.
And to think how many lives Coach Dillon has touched - both players and volunteer coaches and families - is awe-inspiring.
"Please help me win,
but if I can not,
let me be brave in the attempt"
- Special Olympics Creed
Posted in Everyday Heroes, Family, Loudoun County | Permalink
