Testimonials

  • I met Todd when my daughter Devyn decided to take up Powerlifting through Special Olympics. He was able to pick up on her strengths immediately and was so encouraging, she was committed by the end of her first practice. He knows when to apply a bit of pressure and he also knows when to step back and see what someone can accomplish on their own.

    Todd has a heart for this community and it shows in many ways. 

    ★★★★★
    Kerry Brownridge 

  • I really liked Todd's coaching style in that I didn't feel highly pressured to lift heavy weights right off the bat. He was patient and helped me with my form.

    And through that, I felt that I got stronger in the process. I was also happy that he went above and beyond to accommodate me when the competition date was changed during the season. I would trust him with all ages and all ability levels. He's a great coach and friend. 

    ★★★★★
    JJ Markham 

  • Todd has supported our daughter in Special Olympics powerlifting for many years. His patience and his ability to meet her exactly where she is have always been incredible.

    It’s his passion and commitment to ensuring every athlete succeeds that created an environment where our daughter feels confident, included, and able to participate. We are grateful Todd is a part of our daughter’s journey.

    ★★★★★
    Sarah Moore

  • Todd’s leadership in Special Olympics powerlifting has meant so much to our family. He creates an environment where athletes feel supported, confident, and genuinely excited to show up and push themselves.

    We’ve seen incredible growth in our daughter—not just in her strength, but in her confidence, independence, and sense of belonging. Todd has a way of connecting with each athlete and bringing out their best, while also building a strong, encouraging community. We’re so grateful for the positive impact he continues to have on her life.

    ★★★★★
    Bob & Traci S.

“We met Coach Todd this year and were immediately impressed. It was our son’s first year on the Special Olympics powerlifting team, so he was understandably nervous—but Todd’s warmth, kindness, and encouragement put him at ease right away.

Todd brings a deep understanding of athletes with disabilities and has a remarkable ability to inspire them to challenge themselves in a positive, uplifting way. He also fostered a supportive environment among the volunteer athletes, who reflected that same spirit of encouragement and inclusion. It truly was an amazing experience! Our family is definitely looking forward to going back next year.”

-Petra B.

“Todd has been G’s Special Olympics powerlifting coach for the past eight years, and in that time he has consistently demonstrated exceptional character, integrity, and dedication. He is deeply trustworthy, with a steady, thoughtful judgment that shows in every interaction.

What stands out most is the genuine respect he gives to every individual—no matter their background or ability—something I’ve witnessed firsthand every time I’ve been around him. Todd’s kindness is not occasional; it’s who he is at his core. He creates an environment where athletes feel valued, supported, and capable, and that kind of influence extends far beyond the gym. He is truly one of the rare people whose character shines through in everything he does.

-Denise Iverson

“Our family has known Todd Siler for the past 11 years and I am thrilled to share what a positive experience it has been having him as our daughter’s Special Olympics Powerlifting Coach. She was new to the sport and apprehensive at first. Through Todd’s leadership and coaching skills she continues to excel each year and build confidence in her abilities. This level of mentoring is what all parents value and often can only hope for. His dedication to the sport, the athletes, the families, and the program are unmatched.

We saw Todd build the Powerlifting program from 10 athletes, with our daughter being the only female her first year, into what it has become today, a large team of mixed athletes that are supported by a group of talented volunteers that Todd brought on board in a first rate facility. I will always remember his words when dropping her off for practice, “You are welcome to stay, but you don’t need to. I’ve got this. Take a break.” This is gold standard level.

It takes an immense amount of time and effort to create a successful program. The work he does behind the scenes is unknown to most, but as someone who is familiar with Special Olympics, I know that this is hardly ever on the radar because he makes it look easy. Communication is timely, organized, and detailed. Sportsmanship was fostered and this team competes as a team, full of support for one another and proud of each other’s success. That doesn’t just happen on its own.

I have complete confidence and respect for whatever Todd decides to do. His heart is always in the right place and he has a unique gift for working with people with disabilities and their families. I am delighted to hear he is expanding his horizons. I have no doubt it will be a huge success!”

-Lisa Thomas

“I can't say enough about Todd Siler's wonderful skills and coaching abilities with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. This was my adult son's first year of doing powerlifting. He is 28 years old and has been competing in Oregon's Special Olympics Program since he was about 16 years old. Todd was so enthusiastic, helpful, kind and went out of his way to make JJ feel accomplished in all that he did. Even I was surprised at the improvements I saw in my son at his competition.

I look forward to having Todd work with JJ in the future. You couldn't get a better coach, mentor, or 'hype guy' on your side than Todd!”

-Linda M.

“Our family is deeply grateful for the opportunities and community that Todd has helped to bring our son Noah. What stands out most is his ability to connect with Noah on such a personal level. He meets him exactly where he is while simultaneously honoring his individuality and strengthening his confidence. Todd builds trust through patience, respect, and encouragement. In addition, he builds coaches with leadership expectations that match his own passion. 

Todd consistently shows up for a large team with multiple individual needs while demonstrating a calm approach, clear communication, and genuine care for both athletes and families. He created an environment where Noah feels supported, confident, and proud of his progress. Opportunities like this are rare and make us feel so seen and included.”

-Noah and Family