Champions for Health

A blended in-person and virtual forum exploring the present and future landscape of politics, war, policies, and contemporary issues impacting the Olympics featuring commentary from Dr. Klaus Schormann, President of UIPM; Matt Mitten, Court of Arbitration for Sports

Lunch included onsite. Limited availability. To be added to the guest list contact Dr. Bonnie Tiell at btiell@ftigo.com

Time: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM EST
Agenda:
9:00 World Stage Welcome
9:15 Contemporary Olympic Issues
10:30 Coffee Break
10:45 Future of the Olympic Games
12:15 Lunch Break
1:00 Commentary
Zoom Link: http://cityftmyers.zoom.us/j/86034943015
Panelists: Nancy Hogshead, Olympian; Dr. Liston Bochette, Olympian; Rich Kolko, Olympic Coach, FBI (retired); Jose Rodriguez, Director of Sports 1996 Atlanta; Agnese Ozolina Butler, Olympian; Rob Stull, Olympian
Emcee: Margriet de Schutter, Netherlands
Contact & Moderator: Dr. Bonnie Tiell – btiell@ftigo.com

Student-athletes at FGCU will engage in a transformative experience with Olympians, professional athletes and others, delivering unparalleled insights into leadership lessons for sport and life. Profiles are available on the main page.

Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM EST
Contact: Dr. Ashley Mandeville, amandeville@fgcu.edu

Olympians, professional athletes, and more will address students in Lee County high schools on the power of fitness and goal-setting.

Time: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM EST
Contact: Jenn Robinson – JennAR@leeschools.net

16 break-out rooms feature over 60 sports and fitness industry professionals addressing careers, professional development, and hot topics in sports. Open to the public.
Breakout Topics and Speakers: Available HERE

Time: 8:45 AM – 11:45 AM EST
Zoom Link: http://cityftmyers.zoom.us/j/83758716853
Contact: Chelsea Lambright, lambrightcl@ftigo.com

Attention Lee County Students! Join the excitement at this after-school event taking place at the S.T.A.R.S. Complex. Work on agility and fitness while playing games with Olympians, professional athletes, and others.

Time: 3:30 PM – 4:45 PM EST
Contact: Ray Romero, Raycer131@aol.com

Immerse yourself in the ultimate fan experience where everyone in the family can engage with Olympians, professional athletes and more, while gaining valuable insights from fitness, nutrition, and wellness in a truly unique and inspiring celebration of sports and health.  Take photos with athletes and collect autographs! Hold an Olympic medal! Collect free merchandise! Fun for the entire family!

Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM EST
Contact: Hallie Davis, hallie@fortmyers.org

Dr. Liston “Lin” Bochette is a distinguished figure whose exceptional accomplishments span athletics, artistry, and civic leadership. With a B.F.A from the University of Florida, an M.A from InterAmerican University, and a Ph.D. from Pacific Western University, Bochette’s academic journey paved the way for a diverse career intertwining sports, art, and community engagement. His legacy encompasses 5 Olympic appearances, with contributions extending beyond competition to influential roles in Olympic affairs globally. Bochette has held esteemed positions such as, Secretary General to the World Olympians Association, President of the Pan American Olympians Association, and served on significant athletic commissions. Not confined to sports, he’s an acclaimed artist recognized as USSA International Sport Artist of the Year in 1996, co-founding the Art of the Olympians Museum. His civic involvement is notable through board memberships in esteemed institutions like the United States Sports Academy and the University of Florida College of Fine Arts. Presently, residing in Ft. Myers, Florida, Bochette serves as a councilman in the 4th Ward.

Agnese Butler is a distinguished professional excelling in athletics and finance. Her academic journey led to a Bachelor’s in Economics from Kenyon College in 2004 and an MBA from the University of South Florida in 2008. At Kenyon, she achieved remarkable success in NCAA races, earning All-American honors in all 21 events she competed in, securing 15 NCAA titles, and displaying prowess in individual events and relays. Recognized for her leadership as a team captain, she received accolades including the CoSIDA Academic All-America selection and Kenyon’s Falkenstine Award. As an Olympian for Latvia in 1996, 2000, and 2004, Agnese transitioned into finance and presently serves as the Vice President – Financial Advisor at RBC Wealth Management in Sarasota, Florida.

Alain Jean Pierre is a prominent figure in sports administration, particularly in fostering athletic development and advancing the Olympic movement in Haiti and the wider Central American and Caribbean region. Serving as the President of the Haitian Amateur Athletic Federation (FHAA), he has been pivotal in governing and enhancing athletics within Haiti, nurturing local talent, and establishing programs to support athletes, thus contributing significantly to the country’s sports progression. Additionally, Jean Pierre holds the esteemed position of Secretary General of the Haitian Olympic Committee, guiding Haiti’s participation in the Olympic movement. His influence transcends borders, evidenced by his presidency at the Congress of the Central American and Caribbean Athletics Confederation in 2012. Acknowledged for his commitment to charitable causes, he received the 8th Peace Medal of the YMCA d’Haiti in 2018, highlighting his efforts in promoting peace through sports initiatives. Moreover, his extensive international experience as a delegate at the 2012 CARIFTA Games and prior role as treasurer for the International Athletics Association Federation underscore his dedication to the global advancement of athletics administration.

Rich Kolko coached luge and bobsled at three Winter Olympics. He served in the Navy as a pilot and then as an FBI Special Agent for over 20 years where he worked security for four additional Olympic Games. Kolko transitioned into news reporting working for CNN and worked at the CBS affiliate, WINK News in Southwest Florida. Kolko has a Master’s in Homeland Security from American Military University and a Bachelor’s in Communications from the University of Miami.

Shawn H. P. Smith, a Charlotte, NC native, upholds his tenure in the Boston Red Sox community as the General Manager of Florida Operations. With an extensive career spanning over two decades in professional baseball, Smith contributed significantly to the Red Sox in various capacities, notably as the General Manager of their former Lowell, MA affiliate and through pivotal roles in business and baseball development projects. Departing baseball for nearly a decade, he transitioned to the National Basketball Association (NBA), serving as the Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer of the NBA Development League (now Gatorade League) for seven years and later as a Vice President in the NBA’s revered Team Marketing and Business Operations (TMBO) for over two years. A Syracuse University Newhouse School graduate at the master’s level and an alumnus of Purdue University for his undergraduate degree, Smith’s affiliations boast memberships in the Red Sox organization during the victorious 2004 and 2018 World Series Championships. Furthermore, he received acknowledgments such as induction into Syracuse University’s Newhouse Professional Gallery in 2012 and the Providence Day High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007.

Jose Humberto Rodriguez is a distinguished sports administrator serving on the executive committee for the Pan-American Judo Confederation and formerly with the International Judo Federation where he was elected as the Development Director.  Rodriguez was appointed as the Director of Sport for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and has continued his administrative legacy for numerous Olympics. Several former roles include Managing Director of the World Olympians Association and Director of the Florida Sunshine State Games and Florida Senior Games.

Nancy Hogshead, an Olympic champion and civil rights lawyer, is the CEO and founder of Champion Women, a non-profit focusing on legal advocacy for females in sports. Her expertise encompasses Title IX compliance, sexual harassment, abuse and assault, maintaining sex-segregation in sports, and battling discrimination based on employment, pregnancy, and sexual orientation. Hogshead’s athletic career includes winning three gold and one silver medal at the 1984 Olympics, being undefeated in high school and college meets, and receiving accolades like the Nathan Mallison and Kiphuth Awards. She’s a member of multiple sports Halls of Fame and has spearheaded initiatives, such as a federal law safeguarding athletes from sexual abuse and enhancing their rights, notably appointed to a Congressional Commission on the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Her advocacy work extends to scholarly publications, expert testimonies, teaching sports law, and serving on various boards and committees dedicated to gender equity in sports, earning her numerous awards and recognitions for her impactful contributions to women’s athletics.

Greg Pelican is a distinguished figure in the realm of elite amateur athletics, known for his prowess as an active cyclist and seasoned competitor in various racing disciplines. With an impressive track record, he has clinched the prestigious title of four-time age group USAT Duathlon National Champion and was honored in 2019 as the Grand Master Duathlete of the Year. Pelican’s accolades extend beyond national triumphs, boasting two Bronze Medals in the ITU Duathlon World Championships, additional national championships in duathlon and cycling, a notable 5th place in the USA Track and Field Masters XC National Championships, an 8th place finish in the USAT Sprint Tri Age Group Championships, and three-time recognition as the USA Cycling Masters Connecticut State Champ. In addition to his athletic pursuits, Pelican contributes his expertise as a marketing manager at Trek Florida and serves as a managing partner at Naples Cyclery, cementing his dual passion for sports and business leadership.

Margriet de Schutter, a former elite short track speed skater, emerged as a seven-time Dutch relay champion and a dominant force in individual events, marking her success on the international stage. Post a remarkable nine-year career, Margriet decided to conclude her journey as a speed skater after the 2010 Olympics. Focused on avoiding a post-athletic void, she returned to her studies in International Communications, later specializing in Media Studies at Hanze University. Discovering a passion for documentary filmmaking, Margriet won the Scenario award at the Dutch Northern Film Festival in 2010, leading to the production of ‘Diepgaan voor Vancouver’ (Going deep for Vancouver), a documentary about her transition from elite sports. Founding her own company, ‘Crossover Media,’ in 2012, Margriet created ‘Extopsporter.nl,’ a website delving into TV production. Her motto, emphasizing the power in vulnerability, is reflected in her work and life philosophy. In 2013, she authored ‘Stoppen & Doorgaan’ (Quitting & Continuing) following the success of her documentary and website. Remaining closely tied to speed skating, Margriet also provides media and journalistic services.

Desi Wynter, a proud native of the Virgin Islands, carved his name into the annals of sports history with stellar performances in the 400-meter dash at the 1988 Seoul and 1992 Barcelona Olympics. His electrifying speed and unwavering determination captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, making him a celebrated figure in the realm of track and field. Transitioning seamlessly from the track to the boardroom, Desi Wynter now serves as the Chief Real Estate Officer for the Housing Authority of Fort Myers. Armed with a master’s degree in public administration from James Madison University, Desi brings a unique blend of athletic tenacity and administrative acumen to his role, where he is dedicated to shaping the future of affordable housing in the region. His journey, marked by athletic prowess and a commitment to community development, showcases Desi Wynter as a true exemplar of success both on and off the track.

Shandon Anderson, a notable figure in the NBA, showcased his basketball prowess from 1996 to 2006, leaving an indelible mark on the league. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, he attended Crim High School before honing his skills at the University of Georgia. Selected as the 54th overall pick by the Utah Jazz in the 1996 NBA Draft, Anderson embarked on a compelling journey in professional basketball. Throughout his career, he exhibited his talents with the Utah Jazz, Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, and ultimately clinched a World Championship with the Miami Heat, where he teamed up with LeBron James. Anderson’s tenure in the NBA was highlighted not only by his on-court achievements but also by surpassing the 5000-point milestone. Following retirement, he ventured into a health-focused culinary pursuit, briefly owning a Thai-Vegan-themed restaurant named Drink Art in Atlanta, reflecting his diverse interests and entrepreneurial spirit.

Photo courtesy of: The Sun

Rob Stull is a 4x Olympic athlete and leader renowned for his remarkable achievements in modern pentathlon and épée fencing. Stull’s journey began as an alternate for the 1984 US Olympic modern pentathlon team. He competed in the 1988 and 1992 Olympic Games. Notably, he also participated in épée fencing at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. He secured the title of four-time US individual épée champion, triumphing in 1989-90, 1992, and 1994. His success extended beyond national borders, as evidenced by his victories at the Pan American Games, where he secured a gold medal in modern pentathlon in 1987 and a silver medal in épée fencing in 1999. After graduating from the University of Texas, Stull transitioned to a leadership role, leveraging his extensive expertise and experience to contribute to the sporting community. In 1996, he assumed the role of Executive Director of USA Pentathlon, a position he held until 2000. Stull later returned to lead the organization, reprising his role as Executive Director in 2010. He served as a pivotal member of the US Olympic Committee Executive Committee from 1996 to 2005. Stull was appointed as the President of the Confederation of Modern Pentathlon for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean (NORECA) in 2016.

Patty Loverock is a retired Canadian sprinter who achieved notable success in track and field during the 1970s. Loverock represented Canada in the 100, 200, and 4×100 meter relay at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal. She was a semifinalist in the 100 and her 200 meter semifinal time established a new Canadian record. The 4×100 meter relay team with Margaret Howe, Joanne McTaggart, and Marjorie Bailey placed fourth behind East Germany,  West Germany and the Soviet Union. The team’s time of 43.17 was both a Canadian and Commonwealth Record. In the 1975 Pan American Games, she secured a silver medal in the 100 meters and a bronze medal in the 4×100 meters relay, alongside teammates Marjorie Bailey, Joanne McTaggert, and Joyce Yakubowich. Loverock also achieved international sprinting success when she won the bronze medal in the 100 meters at the 1975 World University Games in Rome.  In 1978 she set a world record in the indoor 60 yards, winning the event at an invitational meet in College Park, Maryland.  As a result of her successes, Loverock was inducted into the British Columbia Sports Hall of Fame. Following her illustrious athletic career, Patty Loverock transitioned into the field of education. For 19 years, she served as a high school literacy coach at Lee County Schools, dedicating her expertise to the development of young minds. Patty is a proud alumna of the University of British Columbia, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and Recreation. Additionally, she pursued further academic achievement, earning a Master of Arts in Journalism from Western University.

Jaylen Watkins is a former NFL safety with a notable career that includes playing college football for the University of Florida and being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Hailing from Cape Coral, Florida, Watkins attended Cape Coral High School, where led his high school team to an impressive 11–1 record in his senior season, reaching the FHSAA 4A Regional semifinals. Watkins excelled in track and field, earning a spot in the 4A Track Championships for the 4×100 relay. His outstanding performance earned him a selection to play in the prestigious 2010 U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Watkins continued his football journey at the University of Florida from 2010 to 2013. Beyond his contributions to football, Jaylen Watkins has ventured into business as the co-owner of Players Performance in West Palm Beach, FL, and the co-owner of D1 Training Fort Myers. Jaylen Watkins’ journey from high school standout to successful college player and business owner is a testament to his dedication and multifaceted talents in the world of sports.

Isabela Aponte is a trailblazing youth athlete representing Puerto Rico, making history as the first athlete from a Caribbean island to compete in luge at the Youth Olympics. Born with a passion for sports, Isabela has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination in the challenging sport of luge. As a dedicated athlete, Isabela achieved the remarkable feat of qualifying for the 2024 Gangwon Youth Olympics, showcasing her prowess on the icy tracks. Isabela’s participation in the Youth Olympics is not only a testament to her individual talent but also a significant milestone for Puerto Rico and the broader Caribbean community.

Photo courtesy of International Luge Federation

Warren Williams, a talented football player hailing from Fort Myers, Florida, made a significant impact during his collegiate and professional career. Williams rose to prominence as a running back during his time at the University of Miami. Williams showcased his exceptional skills on the football field, catching the attention of scouts and enthusiasts alike. His remarkable performances at the University of Miami paved the way for him to enter the National Football League (NFL) draft in 1988 where he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers. As a key member of the Steelers from 1988 to 1992, demonstrating his versatility and prowess Williams was honored with the prestigious Joe Greene Great Performance Award in 1988. This award recognized his outstanding achievements and dedication to the team, a testament to his impact on the field. In 1993, Williams continued his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts. Williams still resides in the Fort Myers, Florida area.

Photo courtesy of 247 SPorts