Turin2025: Coach Jim Bluemond, SO USA - Snowshoeing

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down Jim Bluemond, a dedicated Special Olympics coach who will be representing Special Olympics USA as a snowshoeing coach at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, in 2025. Jim has been involved in the Special Olympics Movement  for the past three years, and his personal connection to the organization runs deep. As a parent of a Special Olympics athlete, Jim has a unique perspective on coaching and supporting athletes of all abilities.

Jim shares his journey into coaching, his experience working with athletes, and how his family—his wife Christine, daughter Emma, and son Ben—have all been key players in his Special Olympics involvement. We also discuss his preparations for the World Winter Games, his approach to coaching, and what he hopes to accomplish at this prestigious event.

Whether you're a coach, parent, or someone interested in the impact of Special Olympics, Jim’s story is sure to inspire. Tune in to learn more about his coaching philosophy, the importance of family in the Special Olympics community, and what makes these athletes truly extraordinary.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Jim's journey into Special Olympics and becoming a coach
• The role of family in supporting athletes, including Jim’s own family’s involvement
• Coaching strategies and overcoming challenges with athletes of varying abilities
• What Jim is most excited about for the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin
• How Jim is preparing his snowshoeing team for the competition
• The impact of Special Olympics events on athletes’ lives, both on and off the field
• Personal insights on being a parent to a Special Olympics athlete and how that shapes his coaching approach
• Jim’s passion for Star Wars and how it connects to his life as a coach and father

Listen now to hear Jim’s inspiring journey and get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into coaching at the Special Olympics World Winter Games!

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• Enjoyed this episode? Tune in to our Special Chronicles Podcast Series "A Recap of Turin2025" to hear more stories from the World Winter Games.
• Watch Recap of Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 on YouTube
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• Meet The Turin 2025 Team
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Daniel Smrokowski is a columnist and the founder and host of the award-winning podcast, Special Chronicles, which has released over 750 episodes in over 15 years. In recognition of these accomplishments, Daniel is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Read more about Daniel HERE