Author: Joan Erikson

PANCAKE BREAKFAST 2025

Our second annual Pancake Breakfast was a huge success. So many people and businesses stepped up to help. First and foremost, we need to thank the Leesburg Moose Lodge who prepped, cooked, offered their space and were engaging with our athletes and families. There were many businesses that donated baskets for our silent auction. In addition, we also had several donors the sponsored the event. Many thanks to all.

DANCE SOVAL STYLE

DANCE SOVAL STYLE: SOVAL wrapped up a sensational fall dance season. First of all, many thanks to METHOD HEALTH CLUB in Ashburn for hosting our dancers. This club and its owner Andy Stromberg have been invaluable to our programming. Second, we couldn’t have dancing without fabulous instructors. Thank you to Chablis and Nitixa at Method Health Club, Robert and Caitlin from Gotta Swing and Christina from Social Graces.

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.