In sports, a team often evolves into more than a group of players—it becomes a second family. For Special Olympics Team Canada 2025 members David, Ty, and Tony Wilkinson, their team isn't just a second family—they share the experience with their immediate family as well.
Hailing from Special Olympics BC – Kelowna, Tony Wilkinson will compete in snowshoeing at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in March, while his brother Ty Wilkinson serves as a cross country skiing coach and their father, David Wilkinson, as a snowshoeing coach.
Both coaches first got involved with Special Olympics because of Tony. “Watching his incredible growth and success sparked my commitment and passion for supporting athletes of all abilities,” says Ty Wilkinson.
As a result, the proudest Special Olympics moment for all three Wilkinsons was when Tony Wilkinson won silver at the 2017 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria.
“Witnessing his hard work pay off on the world stage was unforgettable and filled me with pride,” says Ty Wilkinson.
Now, Tony Wilkinson will represent his country as an athlete once again, with his family by his side.
As both coaches and family members of a Special Olympics athlete, Ty and David Wilkinson bring a powerful perspective to the movement.
“My firsthand experience of the impact these Games have on athletes’ lives drives me to support and inspire them every day,” says Ty Wilkinson.
This has influenced his coaching style. “I focus on fostering confidence, resilience, and joy in each athlete, knowing that every achievement, big or small, contributes to their growth and success.”
David Wilkinson is the 2021 winner of SOBC’s Howard Carter Award [link to his award page], recognizing his success in providing exceptional training to athletes and ensuring they are prepared to achieve personal bests and high-calibre performances at competitions. Like his sons, David is honoured to be part of Special Olympics Team Canada and passionate about supporting the team and sharing in a meaningful and memorable experience.
“I am driven to do my best to support and inspire the athletes every day as I know how much effort they have put into getting here, plus how hard they are working to be their best at Games,” he says.
“Seeing the growth and camaraderie develop between the athletes and the excitement of the athletes to train hard, learn new skills, and represent their country is absolutely the best part.”
Tony Wilkinson is ready to represent his country on the world stage. “To represent my country means so much to me, and it's an honour to travel around the world with my teammates on Special Olympics Team Canada,” he says.
“Special Olympics has changed my life, as it taught me to eat healthy food and the importance of working out. Making new friends, learning new sports, and having a supportive community that welcomes everyone.”
Meet members of SO Team Canada 2025