December 19, 2024
Celebrating strength and spirit with an Olympic champion
Troy Horton, an athlete with autism, played soccer alongside U.S. Olympic gold medalist Naomi Girma at an event hosted by Kaiser Permanente.
Special Olympics Southern California athlete Troy Horton (right) poses with his favorite soccer player, Naomi Girma (left).
Troy Horton, who has a whirlwind of energy and a passion for sports, also has autism. Despite his enthusiasm and athleticism, traditional sports programs have often overlooked and undervalued him. However, Special Olympics Southern California is a safe and inclusive environment where Horton can truly shine and be celebrated for his abilities.
Special Olympics Southern California athlete Troy Horton elevating his game at the soccer clinic.
A day of empowerment and joy
In a celebration of the power of sports and the spirit of inclusivity, Kaiser Permanente teamed up with San Diego Wave Fútbol Club to host Horton and other Special Olympics Southern California athletes for a soccer clinic with Naomi Girma, Wave FC defender and a Kaiser Permanente ambassador.
At the clinic, Girma inspired the athletes with a message about believing in yourself. After this, the Special Olympics Southern California athletes joined Girma in practicing various drills and exercises designed to improve their technique, coordination, and teamwork. Passion for the game united everyone.
Girma’s involvement was particularly special for Horton, who described meeting her as a dream come true. “Naomi is my favorite soccer player,” said Horton. “It was fun to practice my soccer drills with her.”
Girma also expressed her enthusiasm for the event, saying: "It's incredible to see the joy and confidence that sports can bring to everyone. It was a reminder of the positive impact that inclusive sports programs can have on individuals and communities."
Special Olympics Southern California athlete Rebecca Brewer (left) sharpening her skills with coach Emilee Mason (right).
Special Olympics Southern California athletes practicing soccer drills with Naomi Girma.
Building a healthier future together
As the official health care partner and trusted team physicians for San Diego Wave FC, Kaiser Permanente is proud that our partnership extends beyond game day. By teaming up on events like soccer clinics, we break down barriers and create vibrant, inclusive environments where everyone can thrive and experience the benefits of sports.
"Participating in sports is an incredible way to boost physical health and overall well-being,” said Brian Kurose, MD, a family and sports medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente Rancho Bernardo Medical Offices. “As a team physician with Wave FC and a dedicated volunteer with Special Olympics Southern California, I’m thrilled to help unite these partners in promoting a healthier, more inclusive community.”
The group joined together to celebrate the spirit of the game.
During the clinic, Dr. Kurose motivated the athletes, urging them to realize their true potential and reminding them that true strength comes from resilience and determination.
When the final whistle signaled the end of the clinic, it was a celebration of building confidence, fostering social connections, and promoting healthy habits.
