Special Olympics Arkansas Sweeps all three special olympics North america national coaching awards
Special Olympics Arkansas is proud to announce that three of our coaches have been selected as national award recipients by Special Olympics North America, sweeping all three coach categories. This unprecedented achievement highlights what we have always known: Arkansas coaches are among the very best in the world.
“Today is a proud moment for Special Olympics Arkansas. Sweeping all three national coaching awards is more than an honor; it’s a powerful affirmation of the heart, commitment, and excellence our coaches bring to athletes every single day. James, Sydney, and Jerry represent the very best of who we are. Their leadership changes lives and proves that when coaches pour into athletes, athletes rise. We are proud to have North America highlight what we have always known: our coaches set the standard," Terri Weir, Special Olympics Arkansas CEO.
Special Olympics thrives because of dedicated coaches who give their time and energy; in addition to full‑time jobs and personal commitments. This year, Arkansas nominated three exceptional leaders, and all three were chosen as national honorees. Their impact reaches far beyond the playing field, shaping athletes’ confidence, skills, and futures.
“Today is a proud moment for Special Olympics Arkansas. Sweeping all three national coaching awards is more than an honor; it’s a powerful affirmation of the heart, commitment, and excellence our coaches bring to athletes every single day. James, Sydney, and Jerry represent the very best of who we are. Their leadership changes lives and proves that when coaches pour into athletes, athletes rise. We are proud to have North America highlight what we have always known: our coaches set the standard," Terri Weir, Special Olympics Arkansas CEO.
Special Olympics thrives because of dedicated coaches who give their time and energy; in addition to full‑time jobs and personal commitments. This year, Arkansas nominated three exceptional leaders, and all three were chosen as national honorees. Their impact reaches far beyond the playing field, shaping athletes’ confidence, skills, and futures.
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The Outstanding Coach Award recognizes coaches who demonstrate exceptional leadership, embody the highest ideals of the coaching profession, and elevate their programs at the local, regional, and world levels.
James Winnen exemplifies everything this honor represents. His unwavering dedication and leadership have influenced countless athletes across multiple sports. Beyond coaching, he is a driving force in competitions, fundraising, athlete leadership, and Young Athletes programming. His positive influence makes him a role model for athletes, families, and fellow coaches statewide. |
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The Rising Star Award honors coaches under age 25 who are early in their careers yet already making significant contributions and demonstrating extraordinary potential.
Sydney Green has quickly become one of Arkansas’ strongest young leaders. Her energy, dependability, and forward‑thinking approach make her an invaluable member of the State Youth Activation Committee. Known affectionately as the “hype girl,” she brings enthusiasm and maturity to every activity, uplifting athletes and peers with her positivity and leadership. |
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The Annette K. Lynch Lifetime Achievement Award honors coaches who have devoted several decades to advancing the Special Olympics movement and developing athletes.
For nearly five decades, Jerry Bridges has championed opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities in Arkansas and across the nation. His journey began in 1978 as an elementary physical education teacher welcoming students with intellectual disabilities into his classes—an experience that sparked a lifelong commitment to inclusion. Jerry coaches not for recognition, but for the athletes themselves. His patience, compassion, and integrity have inspired generations of coaches, volunteers, and educators. |
A special thank you to Rusty Gartrell of the North Little Rock Police Department for creating the award videos.
Special Olympics North America has also provided a coaches education stipend to Arkansas in honor of all three award winners.
Become a Special Olympics Arkansas coach!
Special Olympics North America has also provided a coaches education stipend to Arkansas in honor of all three award winners.
Become a Special Olympics Arkansas coach!
Published August 2026
