The Inspiring History of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games: 1984 to 2014

For more than a century, the Olympic Games have brought nations together in a celebration of human achievement, athleticism, and unity. Over the years, numerous cities around the world have had the honor of hosting this prestigious event, and one such city that holds a significant place in Olympic history is Los Angeles, California, and the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games (SCCOG).

From the memorable 1984 Summer Olympics to their continued involvement in subsequent Games, the SCCOG has played an extraordinary role in shaping the Olympic legacy in Southern California and beyond. Explore the fascinating journey of this organization as we delve into their accomplishments, challenges, and enduring impact.

Origins and Formation

Tracing back to 1939, the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games was established with the vision of bringing the Olympics to Los Angeles. Despite the outbreak of World War II, this dream became a reality in 1984, when Los Angeles successfully hosted the Summer Olympics for a second time.

Bringing the Olympics Back to Los Angeles: A History of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games, 1984 to 2014

by Megan O'Russell(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5090 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	40 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	60 pages
Item Weight	:	4.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.15 x 8 inches

FREE

The SCCOG was formed with a dedicated group of individuals committed to showcasing the best of Southern California to the world and creating a memorable Olympic experience. Led by pioneering philanthropists and business leaders, the organization tirelessly collaborated with government officials, sponsors, and Olympic governing bodies to ensure the successful execution of the Games.

The 1984 Summer Olympics: A Triumph Against All Odds

The 1984 Summer Olympics marked an extraordinary triumph for the SCCOG and the city of Los Angeles. The Games faced numerous challenges, including a lack of international sponsors and the absence of major Soviet and Eastern Bloc teams due to political tensions. However, despite these setbacks, the SCCOG's innovative funding and organizational strategies turned the Games into a resounding success both financially and operationally.

One of the SCCOG's most significant achievements was its ability to generate substantial revenue through corporate sponsorships, merchandise sales, and TV rights. By employing a creative fundraising campaign, which included the sale of exclusive Olympic-themed memorabilia and licensing agreements, the SCCOG set a new benchmark for future Olympics in terms of financial self-sustainability.

Legacy and Continuing Impact

The success of the 1984 Games propelled the SCCOG to a prominent position in Olympic history. With their groundbreaking approach to fundraising and organizational management, they laid the foundation for future host cities to better finance and execute the Olympic Games. Their model became a blueprint for subsequent Games, ensuring their long-term viability.

Furthermore, the SCCOG's commitment to community engagement and legacy projects has left a lasting impact on Southern California. The organization invested in infrastructure development, revitalized public spaces, and funded various youth sports programs. These initiatives not only benefited the region during the Olympics but also provided lasting benefits to its residents for years to come.

The SCCOG's involvement in subsequent Olympic bids and their unwavering dedication to the Olympic movement have further cemented their place as one of the most influential Olympic organizing committees in recent history. From inspiring thousands of volunteers to facilitating local sports development, their contributions have extended far beyond the duration of the Games themselves.

The Olympic Spirit Lives On

As we reflect on the history of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games from 1984 to 2014, we are reminded of the transformative power of the Olympic Games in bringing communities together and leaving a lasting legacy. The SCCOG's unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and the Olympic spirit continues to inspire future generations to dream big and work towards their goals.

While the Games may now be a cherished part of history, their impact resonates through the memories, legacies, and inspiration they leave behind. The SCCOG's role in shaping the Olympic movement serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, determination, and a shared vision of what humanity can achieve when united.

Bringing the Olympics Back to Los Angeles: A History of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games, 1984 to 2014

by Megan O'Russell(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5090 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	40 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	60 pages
Item Weight	:	4.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.15 x 8 inches

FREE

What are the most difficult feats in the Olympic world? Running 100m in under 9 seconds? Pole vaulting higher than 6m? Or even hurdling a javelin over 63m? Equally daunting, in fact, is overcoming obstacles to win an Olympic Games bid.

Bringing the Olympics Back to Los Angeles: A History of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games 1984 to 2014 provides an account of the journey to help secure the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games beginning decades ago, following the success of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Chronicled by Ann Owens, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Southern California, and Barry A. Sanders, former chairman of the Southern California Committee for the Olympic Games, Bringing the Olympics Back to Los Angeles shares a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the time, talent and perseverance required to prepare a bid and maintain public support to be positioned to win the long game of Olympic bidding.