Volunteer Spotlight: Sheelah Watson
Name and a little about yourself
My name is Sheelah Watson, and I live in County Kildare. Alongside volunteering with Special Olympics, I’m an active member of the Nás na Rí Singers, a mixed-voice choir based in Naas, as well as the local church choir at Our Lady and St. David. I also enjoy taking part in the many and varied activities of the Naas Women’s Shed, and I love pole walking with Kildare Sports Partnership, who provide excellent programmes for older adults or “senagers” in our community.
Most importantly, I’m a proud grandmother to nine wonderful grandchildren, ranging in age from 18 down to 6.
What club/events do you volunteer with and what do you enjoy most?
I’ve been fortunate to volunteer across a wide range of Special Olympics sports and events, including swimming, athletics, equestrian, badminton, 10-pin bowling, and MATP. I’ve also supported the Athlete Leadership Programme through a local club.
During lockdown, I helped keep athletes connected by leading a virtual Couch to 5K programme over Zoom. Off the field, I volunteer at the Leinster Support Centre, assisting the team with various administrative tasks. Most recently, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor two youth athletes on work placements, one preparing to transition to further education, and the other completing work experience as part of their Applied Leaving Certificate.
What motivated you to get involved with Special Olympics?
Sport has always been a central part of my life, and I’ve loved working with people in both training and competitive settings. I was involved with the first ARCH Club in Dundrum in the late 1960s as a teenager, which I enjoyed immensely, and later volunteered with Community Games.
While raising my children, I coached and managed various teams and noticed that athletes with intellectual disabilities often had limited opportunities. In the mid-90s, a work placement at a special school reignited my passion as I supported students in swimming, equestrian, and gymnastics. So, when the call came in 2003 for volunteers for the Special Olympics World Games, I jumped at the chance. And as the saying goes, the rest is history!
What has been your most memorable or rewarding volunteering moment?
I don’t have one single ‘most memorable’ moment. I prefer to live in the moment with each athlete, offering whatever support or encouragement they need at the time.
I especially enjoy the roles of Escort and Mentor, where there’s meaningful interaction with the athletes. It’s a chance to get to know their personalities, hear about their ambitions, and sometimes listen to their stories while we wait together for their turn.
The most rewarding moments are when an anxious athlete becomes calm and confident, ready to take on their event after talking things through at the staging area. Every now and then, an athlete or sometimes a carer, coach, or family member will express gratitude for simply being a listening ear. It’s those quiet moments of connection that stay with me the most.
What have you learned about yourself through volunteering?
I’ve learned that while patience is one of my core strengths and something I rely on often, I’m still human and even I can feel stretched when things go beyond the usual.
That said, I’m constantly inspired by the coaches, volunteers, and staff around me. Their wealth of experience and calm, positive approach create a supportive and competitive environment where everyone thrives. It’s truly a joy to work alongside people like that.
5. If you could describe your volunteer experience in three words, what would they be?
Fulfilling. Beneficial. Friendships.