Coaches Win “Empower” Award for Work with Special Needs Students in Smithfield, VA

Written by Tiffani Daughetry, June 2, 2025

Let’s hear a coach’s perspective…

I’ve always held a deep-seated belief that every single child deserves the same opportunities, especially when it comes to the simple, profound joy of learning and having fun. As the program kicked off in the Spring, I eagerly welcomed a new wave of students. Each little face brought a unique personality, and with that, a fresh opportunity for me to understand their individual strengths and specific limitations. It was a journey of connection, learning names, and more importantly, learning how to best support each child.

This year, I was handed an incredible opportunity – to once again bring the Little Lions Club to a reverse inclusion classroom and students with special needs in the Isle of Wight school system. Stepping onto the fields of our partner elementary schools was a responsibility I embraced with my whole heart. To say this year has been fulfilling would be an understatement; there are few words that can truly capture the depth and joy of this experience.

My role quickly evolved beyond just teaching soccer skills. It became about fostering an environment of encouragement, a space where each student could cultivate their own confidence. Some days, the most important coaching I did was simply lending a listening ear as we walked to the play space, sharing in their exciting stories and offering a little extra love.

Two students, in particular, will forever hold a special place in my memory. One uses a wheelchair, the other a walker, and neither had ever had the chance to join a sport like soccer due to their mobility impairments. But I saw the strength in their eyes, the determination in their spirits. I knew, with unwavering certainty, that their minds were limitless, and soccer wouldn’t be limited for them either. Witnessing their physical growth, the strengthening of their legs throughout the year, was nothing short of beautiful.

Then there were the students who were nonverbal. To see the sheer excitement and pride swell within them as they scored a goal – that was a language all its own. It was powerful proof that allowing them to simply be in their space, to participate in their own way, empowered them in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

These amazing kids weren’t just playing soccer; they were shattering barriers. Many were technically considered “unable” to participate in a sport. Yet, with time, patience, and understanding, they achieved things others may think impossible. I’ll never forget the day one young boy kicked a ball for the very first time. By a stroke of wonderful luck, his mother, who works at the school, was there to witness that incredible milestone. The hug she gave me afterward, the raw emotion in her voice as she told me it was his first-ever kick – that moment crystalized everything.

It taught me, more profoundly than ever, that “special needs” is never about a “can’t do” attitude. It’s about embracing a “what can I do next?” spirit. This program has gifted me with so many precious moments, both on and off the field, and for that, I am incredibly grateful. To watch these children blossom, to see their confidence soar, has been the greatest reward. I am, without a doubt, one incredibly proud coach.

Coach Tiffani