The Inspiring Journey of Jordan Schubert: From a Basketball to a Lifelong Mission

When Jordan Schubert first picked up a basketball as a kid in the Chicago area, he had no idea how far that first dribble would take him. His journey began in fifth grade when his mother signed him up for Special Olympics basketball as “something to do in the fall.” What followed was not just the cultivation of a skill but a lifelong journey defined by sport, confidence, leadership, and ultimately, an unexpected job offer.

First Steps in Special Olympics

Reflecting on those early days, Schubert shares, “I didn’t really know what I was getting into at the time. But from sixth grade on, I have loved every moment of it.” His passion for basketball quickly overshadowed other sports he explored, such as bowling, soccer, floor hockey, and softball. The hardwood floor became his cherished arena, culminating in a special memory when he won his first gold medal on his mother’s birthday—a moment etched in both their hearts.

Beyond Athletics: A Holistic Growth

Special Olympics turned out to be a profound catalyst for growth that transcended athletics. Schubert noted, “It helped me academically. I got better grades and made more friends.” This sense of community and achievement opened doors for him, setting the stage for a burgeoning leadership journey that would take root in high school.

In 2010, Schubert attended the USA Games National Youth Summit, an experience that not only ignited his passion for advocacy but also equipped him to champion Unified Champion Schools initiatives in Illinois. Later, after moving to Pennsylvania, he became a member of the National Youth Activation Committee, further solidifying his commitment to inclusion and advocacy.

Early Career and Professional Development

Schubert’s involvement with Special Olympics deepened as he interned at the organization’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. in 2013. Working with the User Experience (UX) team, he didn’t merely focus on his assignments; he proactively supported departments across the office. “Whenever I got my own work done early, I’d help other departments wherever they needed,” he mentioned, a testament to his collaborative spirit.

During a staff conference in Charlotte that same summer, he met the President & CEO of Special Olympics Pennsylvania and learned about a forthcoming job opening. Fueled by ambition, Schubert applied for the position as soon as his internship ended and was thrilled to secure the role shortly after.

Balancing Education with Responsibility

Starting part-time as the Athlete Leadership Coordinator while juggling a full academic course load proved challenging yet rewarding. A staff transition shortly after he began thrust him into greater responsibility. This scenario honed his professional skills, particularly in prioritization and delegation, setting a foundation for his future.

After completing his degree, Schubert was promoted to full-time—and later became the Manager of Athlete Leadership and Young Athletes. “Young Athletes was such a meaningful addition,” he stated, noting he wished the program had been available during his own formative years, as it could have fostered his engagement with Special Olympics even earlier.

Commitment to Athlete Leadership

Schubert now centers his work on developing and supporting athlete leaders across Pennsylvania. He assists individuals in goal-setting, speech preparation, and engagement with regional staff, all while leading statewide trainings. He recently contributed to launching a recognition program that honors athletes who go above and beyond in their contributions.

Throughout his career, the lessons he learned on the basketball court have not been forgotten. “A lot of principles I’ve learned from sports—teamwork, resilience, reflection—I try to apply those to my job,” he explains. “Be a team player. Stay steady. Always strive to improve.”

The value of Inclusion

Schubert doesn’t just find fulfillment in the work he does; he also competes, having played basketball at the 2022 USA Games in Orlando. That experience, coming out of the pandemic, deepened his appreciation for the mission of Special Olympics. “It made me value what I do and what others do so much more,” he reflected.

For Schubert, engaging with Special Olympics isn’t merely about a paycheck; it’s a calling. “I think the biggest thing I’m proud of is the relationships I’ve built with athletes, volunteers, colleagues,” he shared. “People know I’ll listen, and I know they’ll listen to me. That means a lot.”

A Vision for the Future

Schubert is passionate about the importance of hiring athletes within sports organizations. “If other sports organizations value people with lived experience, why shouldn’t we?” he argued. He believes athlete contributions bring critical insights that enhance the overall mission, stating, “We don’t have all the answers, but inclusive collaboration is how we build a better future.”

To him, inclusion is simple: a shared identity. “Inclusion to me means one,” he emphasized. “It doesn’t matter what word you use—unified, inclusive—it’s about seeing each other as one.”

Jordan Schubert’s journey reflects the transformative power of sports and community, marking him not only as an athlete but also as a leader in advocating for inclusivity and empowerment for all. His story serves as an inspiration to countless others within and beyond the realm of Special Olympics.