The Voice Behind Powerlifting: Scott Frey Brings Energy to the 2024 State Summer Games!
By Lily Coates
If you were at Powerlifting for the 2024 State Summer Games, you undoubtedly heard the voice of our volunteer announcer, Scott Frey. Frey’s enthusiasm and high-energy commentary lit up St. John’s Arena, uplifting our powerlifting athletes and creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Frey is no stranger to radio and PA announcing. He has worked as a high school sports broadcaster on local AM radio and cable stations for ten years. Since 2017, he has been the PA announcer at New Bremen High School, earning the title “Voice of the Cardinals,” as he calls various sports such as girls’ volleyball, girls’ basketball, and boys’ basketball games. This extensive experience has undoubtedly paved the way for his effective and spirited volunteer work.”I first got into radio by being the chamber director,” Frey recalls, reflecting on his time leading his local chamber of commerce. This role helped him become comfortable speaking in front of large groups, announcing numerous events such as parades, turtle races, duck races, live dodgeball, and even live mud volleyball. “If it can be talked about, I’ve done it.”
Frey is a first-time volunteer with Special Olympics. He was introduced to this opportunity by Jason Wells, a Powerlifting coach for Mercer County, who recommended him for the announcer position. “I have a hard time saying no,” Scott admits. But more than his inability to decline an opportunity, it was the chance to be part of the enthusiasm and joy for competition that drew him in. “Going through life and dealing with hurdles or barriers is just a drag, and if there’s a way we can give these individuals some joy in their day, I want to be part of it.”
As the Powerlifting announcer, Frey introduced each lifter enthusiastically, ensuring to bring the energy that keeps the atmosphere vibrant. “It took a lot of energy out of me, but it was fun,” he says. The joy he felt when the athletes responded to their intros was surreal. “There’s nobody that doesn’t win; some may lift more than others, but they’re all winners, and being a part of something like that is just incredible.”
Frey recalls the most rewarding aspect of volunteering was meeting the athletes and seeing the smiles on their faces after he announced their names. “At the end of the day, we are all people. We all have feelings, we all want to do well, and we all want to compete. Focus on that,” is his advice to anyone considering volunteering. The welcoming nature of the staff and other volunteers made his experience even more rewarding.
Scott’s story is a testament to the power of volunteering, not just for those who receive support but for the volunteers who find immense satisfaction and purpose in giving their time and talents. Through his voice, Frey brings not just information and announcements, but also a sense of community, celebration, and joy to Special Olympics athletes and their families. If you’re interested in volunteering with Special Olympics Ohio visit sooh.org for more information.
Author Lily Coates is a MarComms intern for Special Olympics Ohio, and is a student at The Ohio State University.