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Pinellas Teacher Inducted into the Special Olympics Hall of Fame

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Special Olympics Florida has inducted David Haines into its Hall of Fame.

PINELLAS COUNTY – Resource teacher David Haines, who serves as director of Special Olympics Pinellas, was inducted into the Special Olympics Florida Hall of Fame.

The announcement was made Saturday (March 4) during the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics Area VI games at Lakewood High School.

“David is a selfless leader who inspires our athletes – and everyone he meets – to strive to reach new heights,” President and CEO of Special Olympics Florida Sherry Wheelock said. “We are honored to recognize his decades of service with this award.”

During his 17 years as the Pinellas County director for Special Olympics Florida, Haines has pioneered an “athlete-first” model that has led the way for other county programs across the state. His forward-thinking approach embraces new ways of growing Special Olympics Florida and reaching more people with intellectual disabilities.

Haines helped introduce new sports and opportunities to the Pinellas County program including the Young Athletes, Athlete Leadership, and Healthy Athletes programs. During his tenure, he has helped increase athlete participation by 74 percent, the number of coaches by 119 percent, and significantly increased the number of adult athletes.

Haines’ impact goes well beyond statistics; he has personally invested in the lives of numerous athletes, families, volunteers, coaches, and staff. He is an active listener and seeks to build a friendship with each athlete he encounters.

Additionally, the Pinellas County Schools ESE Department has named a scholarship for students interested in pursuing a career in special education and are active volunteers for Special Olympics in his honor.

Special Olympics Florida | Logo | Special InterestThe Hall of Fame is the highest honor Special Olympics Florida bestows upon an individual or entity. This award is given to an athlete, volunteer, staff member, organization, or corporation that has made substantial contributions to the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through Special Olympics. The awardees must show significant involvement for at least 10 years.

For information about Special Olympics Florida, go to specialolympicsflorida.org.

Special Olympics Florida | Hall of Fame | David Haines | TB Reporter

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