Ellen Pikula of Yorktown Heights, New York, joined the Special Olympics movement 36 years ago. Since, she has served as a coach, Unified partner and staff member. Currently, she is employed as the Special Olympics New York mid-state regional director. Ellen last attended the Special Olympics World Games as an athletics coach in 1995. She has also represented Special Olympics New York in three Special Olympics USA Games. Making her return to the Special Olympics World Games, she will represent Special Olympics USA as a coach in floorball.
In addition to her coaching positions, she officiates track and field, softball and volleyball at the high school and collegiate levels. Through sports, and from her family, she has learned to practice selflessness, giving back to those who need it most. She looks forward to the life-changing opportunities that Special Olympics World Games provides athletes.