Phil-Mattis was born with Down's syndrome. What does this mean for sailing?
Teaching sailing vocabulary to someone with cognitive impairments is not so easy. We simplify everything. We pull or push "somewhere". My son can ride a bike, but he doesn't know the traffic rules. It's similar with sailing: Phil-Mattis has a great feel for sailing, but I don't need to tell him to "luff" or "fall off".
You took part in the Special Olympics World Games in the summer. How did that come about?
We had heard about it and qualified for 2022. A preparatory weekend at the DSV in Kiel was impressive. We were shown around the Olympic Centre, where there are boats belonging to athletes you normally only read about in the newspapers. DSV President Mona Küppers was there and coached us on the water. My son took her tips better than mine (laughs). The DSV is hugely committed to inclusive sailing.
And how were the games in Berlin?
It was very emotional to run into the Olympic Stadium with 7,000 athletes and 50,000 spectators cheering us on. Dirk Nowitzki was there. And Chancellor Olaf Scholz. I would never have experienced all that without my son and his performance.
He was also successful on the water, right?
Yes, he won bronze. With gold from the qualification for the World Games and silver in Level 3 at the European Unified Regatta in Rotterdam, he now has a complete set of medals.
What levels are there in Special Olympics sailing?
In level 1, the handicap athlete operates the headsail, in level 2 he steers the boat. As the foresailor, you can handle the mainsail and jib, but not the tiller. In level 3, two handicapped athletes do everything on their own. A third person sits in the boat and is allowed to explain the rules, but not touch anything. In level 4, two handicapped people are unaccompanied, and in level 5, the handicapped people are required to sail solo.
How do the Special Olympics differ from the Paralympics?
The Special Olympics are a sports movement recognised by the IOC with competitions for people with intellectual disabilities. The Paralympics are the Olympic Games for athletes with physical disabilities.
In case anyone wants to take part: How do you get into Special Olympics sailing?
It is best to get in touch with Special Olympics Germany or regional contacts.
What does Phil-Mattis do in winter without sailing?
His second passion is music and dancing. He is currently training in standard and Latin for a Special Olympics competition in Braunschweig.
About Hans-Jürgen Leiß
Hans-Jürgen Leiß: The 63-year-old from Wilhelmshaven has been a water sports enthusiast since his youth. He sails together with his 26-year-old son, who sits at the tiller despite his handicap. The duo made it to third place at the Special Olympics
