"My experiences in the Sailor Circus program go way beyond the thrill and excitement of performing in the circus arts. Sailor Circus provided priceless lessons of teamwork and dedication that helped develop self-confidence and was the foundation of my successful career in leadership of our community."

– Lou Ann Palmer

“Without the volunteers there would be no Sailor Circus. It is the mothers and fathers, and the volunteer coaches who love this program who make it possible. We all feel that it is time to give back to the community that has given so much to us.”

– Willie Edelston

An Insider’s Tale
By Patty McIntyre Campbell, Director of PAL Sailor Circus

PAL Sailor Circus has undergone amazing changes in recent years, planting new foundations from which to grow and expand the circus that has become known as the Greatest "Little" Show on Earth!

I joined the Sailor Circus in fourth grade, in 1969. I quickly learned that it was hard work, which required dedication and discipline, and that it instilled a sense of responsibility and self-confidence. During my seven years as a performer, I became part of the very special Sailor Circus "family." I could have never imagined that my fondest childhood memories would be of driving stakes, erecting a huge circus tent, lacing the canvas and spreading sawdust.

I returned to Sailor Circus in 1991 with four children of my own and it was as if I had never left. The circus "family" welcomed my children and added my name to the coaching list. It was special to have my old tumbling coach, Willie Edelston, teach my daughter hand balancing. My volunteer position quickly evolved into a staff position, and in 2003, I became Director of the Sailor Circus.

2004 brought the most challenging and dramatic change in our circus history… new ownership. Leaving the support of the Sarasota County School Board after 56 years was frightening, but how wonderful it was to have the Police Athletic League (PAL) step up to the plate for the Sailor Circus. PAL has compassion for the youth in our community, dedication to preserve the Sailor Circus history, and the vision it takes to bring this program to greater heights.

During that time I learned that the Sailor Circus really was my family. I leaned on the support of Coach Susan Voyles Loeffler, now assistant director, Coach Jeff Voyles, assistant to Coach Bill Lee for 30 plus years and now arena manager, Coach Willie Edelston, coaching here since 1961, and twenty or so other long-term coaches.

These people helped make the transition virtually painless, along with dedicated generations of students, coaches and volunteers who graciously accepted.