Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) has selected J’Nette Thorne as its 2012 Coach of the Year award winner.

Thorne got involved with SOTX in 1996 and dedicates her time to the organization in a variety of roles.  She is a head of delegation in the Panhandle area, trainer, chaperone, competition director for several sports and member of the Area Sports Management Team (ASMT) and Games Committee.  Thorne is currently involved with athletics (track & field), bowling, basketball, powerlifting, tennis and many other SOTX sports. 

SOTX competitor, Patti Ballew, said, “[Thorne] has been dedicated for 15 years and is hard working.  She loves her clients as much as we love her.”

The Coach of the Year award is presented to an individual with extraordinary leadership ability, limitless compassion and untiring efforts in support of the movement.  On October 26, Special Olympics Texas will present the award to Thorne for her achievements and recognize her at Opening Ceremonies for the 2012 Fall Classic in Bryan/College Station.

About Special Olympics Texas 
Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) is a privately funded non-profit organization that changes lives through the power of sport by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities, promoting acceptance for all, and fostering communities of understanding and respect.  SOTX provides continuing opportunities for more than 44,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout the Lone Star State to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship.  To learn more, visit www.specialolympicstexas.org or call 800.876.5646.  Engage with us on: Twitter @SOTexas; fb.com/SpecialOlympicsTX; youtube.com/specialolympicstexas.

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