Special Olympics BC Local
Vernon
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I volunteered with SOBC – Vancouver from 1999 to 2004. In addition to coaching various SO sports, I was also the Volunteer Coordinator. After moving and settling into the Okanagan, I connected with SOBC – Vernon in 2012 and took on various coaching roles: head coach for snowshoeing and Club Fit, and assistant coach/manager for athletics.
Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, which other National Games were you part of and in what role(s)?
This will be my third National Games. My first Nationals was the 2014 Summer Games in Vancouver as an assistant coach in athletics. My second Nationals was the 2020 Winter Games in Thunder Bay. I was an assistant coach for snowshoeing.
What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2024?
I'm very honoured to be a part of SO Team BC 2024. I will do my best to learn from, share with, and support my teammates on this journey to Calgary. This commitment is not limited to my snowshoe team, but to everyone on SO Team BC.
What is/are your goal(s) for these National Games?
To do an outstanding job with preparing the athletes for their best performance and National Games experience ever. Also, to share and learn from each other (coaches and mission staff).
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
Coaching and watching an athlete new to Special Olympics and new to snowshoeing thrive and embrace the sport. This athlete has been with me since the start of the Vernon snowshoe program in January 2015. It was truly heartwarming to watch her self confidence, commitment, and fitness improve year after year and to see her shine at the 2020 National Winter Games in Thunder Bay.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
Of course, winning medals and podium finishes are always on their minds. As a coach, I divert their attention to personal bests and beating them. Other important factors for the athletes are having fun, trying their best, seeing old friends, and making new ones.
What storylines are you excited to see develop in your SO Team BC sport team leading up to the National Games?
"B.C. Snowshoers Are Unstoppable." For the first time ever I believe, we have two athletes competing in the 5 km race. Male athlete Torban Schuffert from Smithers and female athlete Ashley Adie from Campbell River.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
Looking for a fun and fulfilling ongoing volunteering role? Check out your local Special Olympics organization. Not only will you have a chance to bring out the best in each athlete and make a difference in their lives, you will also realize your own potentials. The power of sports and inclusion can be life-changing for all.