John Woltman of the Susquehanna League sent us the following letter earlier this month (everything that follows is from Woltman):
On the evening of Saturday, February 2, at the annual Susquehanna Baseball League Banquet, a very “special” guest, Ken “The Rocket” Kahler, addressed the group on behalf of his Special Olympics softball team. “The Rocket” was there to thank the league, and all of its 10 teams, for supporting the Special Olympics and for their 2007 donation of $2,500. “The Rocket” was introduced by his coach, Dwayne Neff (Windsor Cardinals).
There has been a great interest in, and a lot of requests for, this presentation. Dwayne was kind enough to have a copy of "The Rocket's" speech sent to us so we could post it here to share with you.
Here is a copy of "The Rocket's" speech...
Good evening. I would like to thank you all for having me here tonight to share a meal with you and to participate in the festivities. I would especially like to thank Coach Neff, who invited me to speak to you. He was my softball coach for Special Olympics this year, and I, along with many other of my fellow athletes, are looking forward to an even greater season this year under his guidance.
Being an athlete with the Special Olympics York County Program has given me many wonderful things throughout the years. My coaches taught me about sports rules and sportsmanship. I have learned that loyalty to my team and cooperation are keys to success. I have learned that winning is a very cool thing, but winning is not the ONLY thing. I have learned respect – for my coaches, volunteers, and fellow athletes, but most of all, for myself.
I have gained many assets from my participation in Special Olympics. I have gained self-esteem and self-confidence. I have gained the ability to hold a job, and be great at it! I have gained friendships that will endure my lifetime. And that brings me here, to this night.
Your interest in me, in my team, my program -- called Special Olympics -- has brought me here to thank you. Thank you for what you have been doing for all of us. When you look at me, you are seeing one member of one team. One team among 12 other sports. One individual among almost 300, then you are seeing all the people you have been helping.
Please accept my congratulations to all of you here. If you haven't come in first place, it’s OK for many reasons: and here they are: because you were physically able to play the game. Because you had fun when you played. Because you were with friends. Because you were part of a team. And most of all, because you were part of a generosity that most people aren't willing to share, but YOU did!
Thank you again, and have a great rest of the evening.
COMMENT: A standing ovation immediately followed “The Rocket’s” speech. We all could have called it a night right there. I don't think anyone could have better said what it means to be a part of this great game. Or the concern and support of others. Or the meaning of the words -- sportsmanship, loyalty, cooperation, respect. We can all learn a great deal from “The Rocket” and his teammates. They are, beyond words, truly very “special” individuals, very "special" athletes. We all owe a great “Congratulations” and “Thank you” to Ken "The Rocket" Kahler and to his teammates. And a very special word of gratitude to their coach, Dwayne Neff, for his efforts on behalf of Special Olympics and for involving all of the teams of the Susquehanna Baseball League. – JW.
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