Games will offer 'fantastic new canvas'
The hard work and dedication of Steve Humphries has been recognised with a nomination in the Contribution to Sport category in the Leicester Mercury Sports Awards.
He has been put forward for his efforts in laying the foundations for the event.
He knows, though, that his main contribution is yet to come as the final building blocks are still to be put in place for the Games, which will attract 2,700 athletes with learning disabilities to the city.
It is the second time Leicester will have hosted the event. The first was 20 years ago, and made a huge impact on Steve.
He wants next summer's Games to have a similar effect on as many people as possible around the city – and beyond.
"It was wonderful in 1989. It was the biggest event of its time. This one will have 21 sports, almost double the number we had 20 years ago," he said.
"Now we have an opportunity to paint a fantastic new canvas."
He wants to see as many people as possible get involved with the Games. For example, there is a requirement for 1,500 volunteers to help with the smooth running of the event.
Steve, Leicester City Council's Special Olympics director, believes that if they come forward now, it will leave a legacy for sport in the area.
"Volunteering in sport is very much splintered at the moment," he said.
"What we have here is a chance to bring it all together so we have a database and people know where to look for volunteers in the future."
Steve is also quick to point out, though, that at the heart of the event are the athletes.
"I don't think they can believe that we have got the Games," he said. "The athletes are developing and enhancing their skills all the time. They are so excited about this moment and the fact that they will be taking part in the national games in their own city.
"Not everybody gets that opportunity, but they are walking tall. You can see the pride they have. They have a voice and sport has helped them to develop that."
Steve is determined that the Games will help to enhance and prolong that sense of pride for all those who participate in them, whether as athletes, volunteers or officials.
He said: "In terms of building, I'm very pleased with the effort that has been put in over the last year. I take my hat off to everyone who has shown support."
To learn more about the Special Olympics Summer Games and how to sign up as a volunteer this July as the Games come to Leicester, visit:
Steve Humphries
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