Since late August, teams of Southwest Airlines Employees have been competing in dozens of athletic events for the City of Richardson Corporate Challenge as part of our “Share the Spirit” mission. These events include a wide range of activities, from hobby sports like horseshoes and darts, to schoolyard games like kickball and dodgeball. Field sports include soccer, flag football, and softball. There was also cycling, golf, billiards, and even bass fishing! Southwest is one of 40 Dallas-area companies competing in this year’s Challenge. Companies were placed in divisions based on company size, and we went up against some big names including FedEx, Pepsi, Rockwell Collins, and Texas Instruments.

The goal of the Corporate Challenge is not only to demonstrate your company’s athletic skills, but to also boost teamwork, morale, personal health, and fitness--as well as camaraderie with local businesses and neighbors. The biggest benefit, however, is that all of the money collected from team entry fees goes to Special Olympics Texas. Last year’s Corporate Challenge raised $120,000 for the charity.

A unique thing about these events is that Southwest’s teams consist of Employees from many different departments throughout the Company. I had the pleasure of playing on our softball team with Employees from Ground Operations, Maintenance, Customer Support & Service, Customer Relations, and Technology. Many of us met for the first time when we practiced together, or in some cases, on the day of the competition. Whether it’s at work or at play, Southwest’s people are always able to team together and move toward a common goal.

This year’s event in Richardson is about to wrap up, but Corporate Challenge events are held in many of the cities Southwest serves. Be on the lookout for information in your own city so you too can "Share the Spirit." Grab your bats, cleats, racquets and clubs--It’s On!

photos by Myke Puente from Facilities Maintenance