2024 Grassroots Coach Award: Debbie McCooey
For more than 20 years, Special Olympic BC coach Debbie McCooey has made a strong positive impact on athletes, families, other volunteers and the community at SOBC – Comox Valley’s 5-pin bowling program, Local Executive and beyond. In recognition of her dedication, McCooey is the deserving recipient of the 2024 Grassroots Coach Award.
McCooey has been the head coach of Comox Valley’s 5-pin bowling program for the last 15 years, acting as an assistant coach prior. Fellow volunteers describe McCooey is selfless in her commitment and devotion to her athletes. When the former 5-pin bowling head coach retired, McCooey not only became the head coach, but also took on the role as primary caregiver and live-in home support for two athletes previously cared for by the former head coach. In 2023, she became the primary caregiver for another athlete, her brother-in-law.
The 5-pin bowling program is the largest program in the Local. McCooey ensures the program runs smoothly, booking the bowling alley on an annual basis, coordinating lane assignments, running practices, ensuring proper athlete-to-coach ratios at practice, accommodating special requests for adaptive equipment, organizing friendly competitions with neighboring locals and more. She is tireless in her efforts to support the needs of everyone involved in the program, maintaining exceptional relationships with parents, caregivers and fellow coaches.
McCooey is the secretary of her Local Executive and has represented her Local at regional meetings, as well as regional and provincial workshops. Additionally, she has volunteered at SOBC swim practices, bocce practices, floor hockey tournaments and coordinated many fundraiser events. McCooey often participates in sport development workshops and training sessions, which she uses to implement strategies and techniques that assist in the development of her athletes.
In 2024, McCooey will complete her final year as a coach and secretary. After recently retiring from her full-time job, she is looking forward to enjoying some time off. However, she will remain involved as a volunteer with SOBC – Comox Valley!
Special Olympics BC offers congratulations to McCooey and the 2024 award nominees!