Special Olympics BC Local
Vancouver
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I was asked to volunteer with Special Olympics as I transitioned from coaching skating to education. I helped with one skater (Alex Pang) and found Special Olympics captured my heart and sucked me in! I found it was a lovely way to stay connected to sport, and give back to the community.
Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, which other National Games were you part of and in what role(s)?
I have been to National Games in 2020, 2016, and 2012.
What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2024?
It is always humbling to be a part of SO Team BC. There are extremely talented and hard working athletes and coaches on the team, and it's an honour to be included among that. The team has such a unique opportunity to spread a message of inclusion and showcase the talents and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities.
What is/are your goal(s) for these National Games?
My goal is for my skaters to grow their sense of self-worth, self-esteem, and pride in themselves.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
I think my first National Games is my favourite. Those games were so new to me and I was so inspired by athletes' resilience and abilities. It's the games that drew me in to Special Olympics.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
I see it as a chance for them to be free and let go of other challenges they may encounter. It's a chance to be celebrated for their hard work and talents.
What storylines are you excited to see develop in your SO Team BC sport team leading up to the National Games?
I'm excited to see our new athletes (Kristie, Kayla, and Jamie) grow as people and be proud of being a Special Olympics athlete.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
I would tell them that there is no way to explain or predict what you will experience, but whatever your journey is with Special Olympics is, it will be fantastic!