By Shannon Perez
Staff Writer
Sophomore junior varsity volleyball player Jazlyn Seidel has taken her love for the sport and turned to teaching, working as a volunteer for the Special Olympics of Southern California volleyball team.
Seidel began volunteering over a year ago and has been able to take her knowledge from the school team and extend it to those with disabilities.
“Being able to help out with their team is really rewarding,” Seidel said. “They are just happy that we are teaching them and helping them play.”
Seidel practices alongside the team and assists in one-on-one drills during practice.
“The kids are always friendly and want to learn,” Seidel said. “They enjoy the practice and love being around their teammates.”
The coach of the Special Olympic team, Alan Fry, challenges his players with skill drills, basic training and conditioning. While there are restrictions to the athletes’ physical ability, Fry’s goal is to develop skills and build the players’ self-esteem.
“Our players have a range of skill levels as well as intellectual disabilities,” Fry said. “Having volunteers like Jazlyn helps boost these things.”
According to Seidel, the players’ enthusiasm is the most rewarding part of her experience.
“I’ve grown a new level of understanding for everyone around me,” Seidel said. “I would encourage anybody to go out and help. It’s incredibly rewarding.”
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