NATIONAL AWARDS NIGHT 2024
Every year, we come together to celebrate the heart and soul of Special Olympics Canada—our extraordinary athletes, dedicated coaches, and selfless volunteers from coast to coast to coast. These champions exemplify the true spirit of inclusion, determination, excellence and sportsmanship that defines our movement.
This year’s celebration is set to be one of our most exciting yet, and we want you to be a part of it!
The 2024 Special Olympics Canada Awards Night will be co-hosted by TSN broadcaster Vic Rauter and Special Olympics athlete Callum Denault. Together, they’ll lead us through an unforgettable evening, celebrating the and achievement and impact of our incredible community.
We’ve also got some special guests lined up, including familiar faces like TSN's Jesse Pollock, Lindsay Hamilton, and Jermaine Franklin, along with stars from our Champions Network!
Get ready to celebrate the Athletes of the Year, Coaches of the Year, Team of the Year, and more!
Watch the Award Show Promo
Awards & Winners
Winners to be added on Tuesday, October 29th, after the broadcast
Athlete
of the Year
Presented annually to two of Canada’s most outstanding athletes.
Christian Gerro
Special Olympics Nova Scotia
Christian Gerro has been a dedicated athlete with Special Olympics Nova Scotia for 19 years, excelling in athletics, bowling, and Unified Sports. While an extremely accomplished athlete, Christian’s path to success was not without its challenges. Born with both hearing and visual impairments, he faced hurdles that could easily have discouraged him from pursuing his passion for athletics. However, Christian’s unrelenting spirit and work ethic propelled him forward and taken him to the highest levels of competition within Special Olympics. At the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023, he earned a gold medal in long jump and a bronze in the 4x100 relay. While his athletic achievements are impressive, those who know him are even more inspired by his positive attitude, kindness, and dedication to lifting up others. Off the field, Christian is an artist, crafting intricate origami that showcases his creativity and focus. Whether he’s training for a race or folding the flags of his team, Christian’s attention to detail and love for what he does inspires everyone around him. He is a role model for his peers and proof that with passion and perseverance, we can reach incredible heights.
Athlete
of the Year
Presented annually to two of Canada’s most outstanding athletes.
Jenny Murray
Special Olympics Alberta
Jenny Murray is a trailblazer and true champion in the Special Olympics community. As Team Alberta’s first female snowshoer to compete in the 10k at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024, Jenny earned a silver medal in this event, along with another silver in the 5k and a bronze in the relay. Her remarkable achievements don’t stop there—Jenny also competed at the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 as part of the first women’s soccer team to represent Canada, bringing home a bronze medal. While training for both Games, Jenny emerged as a dedicated leader, offering guidance and support to her fellow athletes, whether training side by side or providing heartfelt words of encouragement. Her commitment to self-improvement is evident in her dedicated training regimen, working five days a week to develop her skills and push her limits. Beyond competition, Jenny is a role model, exemplifying sportsmanship, community spirit, and dedication to her team. Whether she’s racing toward a finish line or supporting her teammates, Jenny puts her whole heart into every move she makes.
Coach
of the Year
Presented annually to two of Canada's most outstanding coaches.
Christina Kendall
Special Olympics Newfoundland &Labrador
Christina Kendall has been a cornerstone of the Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador community for the past 7 years, coaching across a wide range of sports, including Athletics, Bowling, Curling, Snowshoeing, and Swimming. Her coaching journey spans local, provincial, national, and even international competitions, showcasing her dedication to Special Olympics athletes at every level. Christina played a crucial role in training Samantha Walsh, who went on to proudly earn a bronze medal in long jump at the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023. Christina also served as assistant coach for the Provincial Nnowshoe Team, helping lead the athletes to an impressive collection of medals at National Games. Beyond her coaching duties, Christina serves on her club’s executive team, actively contributing to the social and competition planning committees, and holds the position of Secretary for the Provincial Regional Leadership Council. Christina’s dedication goes far beyond medals and competitions. She builds a foundation of support, trust, and personal growth for every athlete she coaches. Her leadership lifts not only their performance but also their confidence and sense of belonging. Christina is a shining example of the impact a passionate coach can have, creating lasting change both on and off the field.
Coach
of the Year
Presented annually to two of Canada's most outstanding coaches.
Rebecca Lavigne
Special Olympics Nova Scotia
For the past decade, Rebecca Lavigne has been a vital part of the Special Olympics Sackville-Bedford Bravehearts community, where her leadership as Head Coach for both the swimming and basketball teams has shaped the programs. Her warm, approachable style and commitment to inclusion have attracted athletes of all abilities, as well as new assistant coaches eager to join her teams. This year, Rebecca launched an innovative Developmental Swimming Program, giving younger athletes the chance to build skills and confidence, laying the groundwork for future competitive success. In addition to her coaching roles, she serves as treasurer on the club’s board, managing its finances and playing a key role in community fundraising efforts. Rebecca’s quiet yet effective leadership has a profound impact on everyone she works with. Whether at practice or behind the scenes, she brings heart, vision, and tireless effort to everything she does. Her athletes don’t just learn the sport—they grow in confidence and belief in themselves, thanks to the inspiring support of Coach Rebecca.
Team
of the Year
Presented annually to Canada's most outstanding sports team.
Team Sask Curling 2024
Special Olympics Saskatchewan
Meet Team Sask 2024, a powerhouse of passion, teamwork, and gold-medal victories! For the past four years, this group of athletes have trained, grown, and excelled together, ultimately taking home gold at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024 —and creating memories to last a lifetime. The strength of this team lies in the unique qualities each athlete brings to the table: Daniel Fiedelleck’s positive attitude and leadership, Scot Earl’s dedication to teamwork, Rodney Mitchell’s determination and sportsmanship, Mitchell Moore’s fun and welcoming energy, and Ysabel Senecal’s vibrant community spirit. Beyond the ice, their impact reaches every corner of their community—from volunteering at local events to organizing fundraisers, their commitment is evident in everything they do. For Team Sask, it’s about heart, dedication, and building a legacy of inclusion that inspires everyone around them. Together, they’re proving that when you combine passion and teamwork, anything is possible!
Dr. Frank Hayden
Lifetime Achievement Award
Named after Canada’s Dr. Frank Hayden, whose research sparked the Special Olympics movement 50 years ago, this award is presented to an athlete who has best exemplified the spirit, philosophy and goals of the Special Olympics movement over the course of their career.
Harvey Archangelletti
Special Olympics Ontario
Harvey Archangelletti first joined Special Olympics in 1976 at 15 years old, and even after nearly five decades, he shows no signs of slowing down. Harvey’s athletic talents span multiple sports, from athletics and bowling to softball, floor hockey, and swimming. His dedication has taken him around the world, representing Canada at numerous Special Olympics World Games, including Baton Rouge, New Haven, and Japan. In 1996, Harvey was named Special Olympics Male Athlete of the Year, and in 2007, his remarkable achievements earned him a place in the Sault Ste. Marie Hall of Fame. Harvey’s leadership extends beyond competition, playing an integral role in the Law Enforcement Torch Run and inspiring his community by volunteering for activities like puck drops, Polar Plunges, and Torch Runs. Harvey’s spirit and dedication have touched countless lives in his nearly 50 years as a Special Olympics athlete, making him a true legend within the movement.
Athlete Community
Excellence Award
This annual award is given to an athlete who has made a significant contribution to the Special Olympics movement locally, provincially, and/or nationally, and has best exemplified the spirit, philosophy and goals of Special Olympics Canada.
Natalie Branscombe
Special Olympics Nova Scotia
Natalie Branscombe is a shining example of both an athlete and a leader. Excelling in swimming, curling, and basketball, Natalie is more than just a competitor—she’s a dedicated ambassador for the Special Olympics movement. As a founding member of the Canadian Athlete Leadership Council in 2016, she played a key role in shaping the future of Special Olympics programming nationwide, ensuring the voices of athletes are heard and represented. Over the past 14 years, Natalie has also served as an athlete ambassador for Motionball, a non-profit that integrates sports with raising awareness and funds for Special Olympics. Whether advocating at public events, volunteering as a referee, or cheering on her teammates, Natalie’s spirit and dedication to building our inclusive movement have made her a beloved figure in the community. With her electric energy and incredible laugh, Natalie has a unique ability to liven up a room, making everyone feel welcomed and appreciated. Her passion for Special Olympics is central to who she is, and she embraces every opportunity to share that passion, no matter the audience or occasion. Natalie’s presence lifts those around her, naturally inspiring the next generation of athletes and creating a lasting impact in communities across Canada.
Rising Star
Coach of the Year
Presented annually to one of Canada's most outstanding coaches, who have been volunteering with the organization for five years or less.
Morgan Jardine
Special Olympics Prince Edward Island
There is no doubt that Morgan Jardine is a rising star in the Special Olympics coaching community. In just two short years, her passion, dedication, and natural talent have made a real difference for countless athletes. Starting as part of a post-secondary placement, Morgan quickly went above and beyond requirements—volunteering extra hours and taking the initiative to pursue professional development, positioning herself for a long and impactful future within he movement. Her remarkable ability to understand each athlete and tailor her approach to meet their needs has been evident from the start. Now as the head coach of the Active Start program, Morgan brings fresh ideas and energy that enrich the athlete experience, while also coaching in 5-pin bowling, floor hockey, FUNdamentals and other community sports programs. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and genuine care for her athletes shine through in everything she does. Morgan’s bright future as a coach is already clear, and her contributions to Special Olympics PEI are truly inspiring the next generation of champions of inclusion.
Rob Plunkett
(LETR) Award
Named after the late Detective Constable Robert Plunkett, a 22-year veteran of York Regional Police who was a leader in both the community and Special Olympics, this award is presented to a Law Enforcement Torch Run representative who best exemplifies the spirit, philosophy, dedication and goals of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and the Special Olympics movement.
Braylon Hyggen
Special Olympics Alberta
With over 16 years of service with the Lethbridge Police, and 14 of those as a dedicated member of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, Braylon’s commitment to Special Olympics consistently goes the extra mile. From coaching his basketball team of nearly a decade, to serving as LETR Alberta's Provincial Director, to representing Canada as a Final Leg Torch Runner at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin alongside athlete David Hall, his leadership has left a lasting impact. Braylon’s innovative fundraising efforts, including auctioning K9 ride-alongs and organizing the Lethbridge Police Services Run, have raised over $300,000 for Special Olympics Alberta. As a coach and mentor, his compassion shines through every interaction and inspires others to follow his example. Braylon truly embodies the spirit of the Rob Plunkett LETR Award, always putting others first and striving to create a better world for Special Olympics athletes.
Harry "Red" Foster
Award
Named after the late Harry “Red” Foster, the sports broadcaster and advertising mogul who founded Special Olympics in Canada, this award is presented to an individual, volunteer or group who best exemplifies the spirit, philosophy and goals of the Special Olympics movement. Like Mr. Foster, the nominee will have contributed significantly to the development, awareness and success of Special Olympics in Canada.
Denita Minoletti
Special Olympics Ontario
For the past 15 years, Denita Minoletti has been a driving force behind the growth of Special Olympics Thunder Bay. Her leadership on the Community Council, combined with her in-depth knowledge of operations, makes her an invaluable resource for athletes, volunteers, and families. Denita’s passion for inclusion and community outreach has raised public awareness for Special Olympics to unprecedented levels, fostering partnerships that have enhanced fundraising, athlete growth, new sport development and team travel opportunities. Serving as both Treasurer and Special Events Coordinator, Denita’s organizational skills and positive attitude have united coaches and volunteers into a powerful support network for athletes and families. As a mother of a child with an intellectual disability, Denita deeply understands the challenges families face, and her compassion shines through in every aspect of her work. Denita’s tireless dedication has touched the lives of everyone around her, creating a community where athletes and their families can truly thrive.
Frank Selke Jr.
Award
Named after the late Frank Selke Jr., Hockey Night in Canada personality and one of Special Olympics Canada’s first celebrity ambassadors, this annual award is presented to a fundraising volunteer(s) who’s made significant contribution to the movement locally, provincially, and/or nationally, and has best exemplified the spirit, philosophy and goals of Special Olympics Canada.
Dr. William Stanish
Special Olympics Nova Scotia
For over 50 years, Dr. William Stanish has been a world-renowned leader in medicine, orthopedic surgery, and sport. Despite a demanding schedule that includes many pivotal roles across the Canadian sports landscape, Dr. Stanish has always ensured Special Olympics athletes are part of his mission. He strives to expand healthcare access for people with disabilities and has not only provided expert care to countless Special Olympics athletes but has also spearheaded fundraising efforts, hosting events that have raised over $200,000 for Special Olympics Nova Scotia since 2014. These events not only raise critical funds, but inspire future generations of physicians and business leaders to join the movement and support athletes of all abilities. Dr. Stanish’s passion for inclusion, health, and community is evident in every facet of his life, making him a true friend to every athlete, coach, and volunteer in the Special Olympics family.
Jim Thompson
Award
Named after the late Jim Thompson, former TSN President and Special Olympics champion, this annual award is given to an operational volunteer who has made a significant contribution to the Special Olympics movement locally, provincially, and/or nationally, and has best exemplified the spirit, philosophy and goals of Special Olympics Canada.
Carole Robb
Special Olympics Ontario
For over five years, Carole Robb has been an indispensable member of Brantford Special Olympics, serving in roles such as Treasurer, Secretary, and Purchasing lead. Her financial expertise and countless hours of service have been pivotal in ensuring athletes and coaches have the resources they need, from equipment to accommodations. Carole has also led key fundraising events, including raffles and basketball games with first responders, while welcoming new athletes and their families with warmth and support. Beyond her official duties, she is a constant presence at events, offering encouragement and embodying the true spirit of volunteerism. Carole’s leadership and passion have strengthened her community in countless ways. We are proud to honor her with the Jim Thompson Award for her outstanding service.
Award Finalists
Athlete of the Year
Coach of the Year
Team of the Year
Rising Star Coach of the Year
Dr. Frank Hayden Lifetime Achievement Award
Athlete Community Excellence Award
Celebrate by giving the gift of community!
Your giving will make a lasting and meaningful impact on the lives of thousands of athletes from coast to coast to coast.
Your giving helps Canadians with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages by creating a safe space where they are respected, valued, and accepted. Special Olympics is a community where everyone is free to be their 100% genuine selves and celebrated for who they are.