Join Special Olympics BC for National Coaches Week as we spotlight coaches Trish and Greg Dunn and other coaches across the province who make a difference in the lives of athletes with intellectual disabilities, their families and other volunteers every single day.
Trish and Greg first got involved with Special Olympics BC when their son registered as an athlete. After driving him to sports and attending games, the next season they were asked to join as 5-pin bowling coaches for SOBC—Oceanside. “We were honoured,” says Greg.
Now, both Trish and Greg say they feel they get more out of coaching than they can give back.
“My heart grows ten times when an athlete is able to express to me that they have achieved and/or surpassed a personal best,” says Greg.
The athletes have taught Trish more than she could have ever imagined: “Dedication, perseverance, and how they come together to support each other, win or lose.”
She loves the camaraderie of the athletes. “They try their best and cheer each other on. Over the past few years, I have truly enjoyed meeting other coaches and learning from their experiences.”
Since joining, Trish and Greg have coached at a local and national level. They both point to the 2024 Special Olympic National Games in Calgary as one of their most memorable experiences at SOBC.
Trish highlights the excitement of the Games and the work that everyone put into it. “Families, coaches, support staff, volunteers and behind the scenes people all came together to help these amazing athletes. I love watching the pride on their faces.”
Greg agrees. “I can’t thank the people of Calgary enough. The Games were amazing, and the support was incredible,” he says. “And to be able to share that experience with my lovely wife Trish was amazing.”
“The diversity and determination of our athletes is where my most treasured lessons have come from,” he says.
Thank you for the tremendous positive impact you have on your community!