Team Stop the Spread: Celebrating Washington’s Olympians

Local Athletes Raise COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts

The Summer Olympics are in full swing. About 50 Olympians have ties to Washington– some call Washington home, and others attended one of our state’s universities or play for a Washington sports team.

We’ve enjoyed working with many of these athletes during our COVID-19 vaccination efforts. While our Olympian partners wow the world with their athleticism, we think their dedication to supporting Washington communities deserves some special recognition, too.

• Nevin Harrison: Seattle-born Nevin Harrison is competing in her first ever Olympics as a sprint canoer for Team USA. The 200m race is extra-special for the 19-year-old world champion since this is the first time the women’s canoe event is in the Olympic games. Beyond the water, Harrison is an advocate for vaccinations — partnering with DOH to encourage people to book their appointments.
• Julio Rodriguez: Mariners prospect Julio Rodriguez is representing the Dominican Republic at this year’s games. Off the field, Rodriguez reminds community members to protect one another. The outfielder recorded a video encouraging his followers to “do their part” and get vaccinated.
• Megan Rapinoe & Sue Bird: Watch for Seattle sports legends Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird in this year’s games. Bird, who had the honor of being the flag bearer for Team USA at the Opening Ceremony, is competing in her fifth Olympic games for Team USA Basketball. Rapinoe is returning as a forward for the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team in her third Olympics. The couple have a history of giving back to Washington communities, and recently recorded this message to champion the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Bonus: Former Olympian Mary Harvey: Gold medalist Mary Harvey deserves recognition following her Olympic reign. Since retiring from soccer, Harvey stepped into the role of CEO for the Centre for Sport and Human Rights, a global organization that works to align the world of sports with the principles of human rights. A dual citizen of Washington state and Switzerland, Harvey partnered with DOH to produce a Public Service Announcement encouraging Washington athletes, sports teams, and their communities to get vaccinated.

So, as you’re watching, be sure to give an extra cheer for the Washington state athletes who are doing their part to protect our communities! We should also thank the many other Olympians who’ve already gotten vaccinated for their courageous leadership. About 83% of U.S. Olympians are vaccinated — that’s about 30% higher than our national average. So if you’re not vaccinated yet, what are you waiting for?

More information

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Check the state’s COVID-19 website for up-to-date and reliable info at coronavirus.wa.gov.

The COVID-19 vaccine is now available to everyone 12 and older. For more information about the vaccine, visit CovidVaccineWA.org and use the vaccine locator tool to find an appointment.

The COVID-19 vaccine is provided at no cost to you.

WA Notify can alert you if you’ve been near another user who tested positive for COVID-19. Add WA Notify to your phone today: WANotify.org

Answers to your questions or concerns about COVID-19 in Washington state may be found at our website. You can also contact the Department of Health call center at 1–800–525–0127 and press # from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday, and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday — Sunday and observed state holidays. Language assistance is available.