Mary Phyl Dwight, Raytown South High School, Class of 1970
After graduating from Raytown South High School in 1970, Mary Phyl Dwightearned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Southwest Missouri State University and a Masters from Kansas State University. She is currently the physical education coordinator for the University of Missouri, Kansas City.
Mary Phyl was a college varsity athlete in five sports, and a member of the U.S. Olympic National Handball team from 1975 – 1984, competing in over 100 international games on five continents, and in 28 countries. In 1984 her Olympic team finished in fourth place.
While at SWMSU, Dwight created the Athletic Skills Program curriculum, based on her desire to teach athletic skills, which were emphasized by her physical education role models in the Raytown School District. Throughout her career, she has promoted team handball, giving presentations and authoring articles and a book.
Special Olympics Founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver acknowledged Mary Phyl’s work as the Director of Team Handball Competition for Special Olympics International. Dwight has traveled to Africa, Europe, and the Far East. In India, Dwight discussed the sport with Humanitarian Mother Teresa.
Mary Phyl Dwight received the U.S. Olympic Sports Festival Gold Medal in 1978, was inducted into the SWMSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1985, and received the USA Team Handball Development Award in 1995.
Mary Phyl continues to live in Raytown and her brother, Wayne lives in the Kansas City area.
