Author: Joan Erikson

SOVAL Growth

Special Olympics – Loudoun County has, over 3 years, doubled the number of athletes participating in our programs and doubled the number of sports locations offered.  A big thank you to our Council and the volunteers who continue to show up in a big way.

Impact Award Winner

IMPACT AWARD WINNER-ATHLETE:  Rachel Levinrad has participated in Special Olympics for over 10 years starting as a swimming volunteer and then joining as an athlete. She has participated in swimming, track, soccer, cycling, pickleball and Top Golf. She frequently lends a hand in fundraising events such as the Dulles Plane Pull, the Polar Plunge and the Pancake Breakfast. Congratulations Rachel!

Impact Award Winner

IMPACT AWARD WINNER-VOLUNTEER:  Josie Rafferty began volunteering 3 years ago and you will see her at many Special Olympics sports. She has volunteered for cycling, dance, basketball, and Top Golf as well as several Western Loudoun sports. Athletes love seeing Josie as she always has a smile on her face as she works/plays alongside them. One of her future goals is to become a Special Education Teacher. Thank you, Josie!

Council Elections in June 2025

The SOVA Loudoun Council “runs the business” of Special Olympics Loudoun County.  We raise funds, manage expenses, organize events, recruit athletes and volunteers and ensure that our programs provide rich experiences for all athletes.  The following positions are currently available:   Chair, Secretary, Equipment/Uniform Mgr, Fundraising, Communications and Events.  Contact Wilson Chua, our Chair, at  chair@sovaloudoun.org for additional information.   Council position descriptions

Big thank you to the Knights of Columbus

Thank you to the Knights of Columbus!   They have generously supported our softball program for many years. In addition to donating financially, they most recently hosted a cookout for 60 or so players, coaches, volunteers, and family members after the July Golden Helmet tournament. A dozen or so Knights showed up very early to kickoff the cookout.

Fall registration is now open

Fall registration is now open on Webtrac for:  swimming, softball skills, cycling, pickleball, bowling, Topgolf, soccer and volleyball.   Go to the calendar to find more details and to register.

The Purcellville Cannons baseball game

The Purcellville Cannons host our Special Olympic athletes every year for a very special night at Fireman’s Field in Purcellville.  This year the game is on Friday night, July 19th at 7:00.  Athletes wearing a SOVA jersey get in free.  Cheer on the hometown team, eat a hot dog, hang with your friends, maybe even catch a flyball.