Special Olympics BC Local
Kimberley/Cranbrook
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I got involved in Special Olympics in 2008 when a couple of ladies were staring up a local in Nakusp, B.C. They had a few athletes that wanted to ski and knew I was a ski instructor. They asked me if they could "pick my brain" and I became the local program coordinator the their new Local and I haven't looked back since.
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 the 2018 National Games in Antigonish as a golf coach and caddy, and the 2020 National Winter Games in Thunder Bay as an alpine ski coach.
What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2024?
Being part of SO Team BC is the same as being part of a family. We are all here to help one another reach our goals and achieve milestones together and have someone to share the experience and celebrate our success with.
What is/are your goal(s) for these National Games?
My goal for these National Games is to help every athlete and coach on our team perform at their best and enjoy the experience while fostering lifelong friendships and accomplishments.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
Having been involved for over 15 years, there are so many proud moments that I could share. But just to know that you make a difference in the life of someone and help them to achieve their goals and do and be the best that can be, is a powerful thing that keeps me coming back.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
To be chosen to SO Team BC is a great honor for my athletes. They know that there are so many athletes that would love to be representing their communities and province, so they take their role on the team seriously and train hard to compete at their best.
What storylines are you excited to see develop in your SO Team BC sport team leading up to the National Games?
I am looking forward to the team bonding with one another and developing the sense of family, where they help and lift up each other as they work towards their goals and develop long-lasting friendships.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
Special Olympics is a great big world wide family of inclusion, that I am so thankful to have in my life. It gives me a great sense of gratification to know that my efforts are valued and appreciated by the athletes that I coach. I would highly recommend that if you have a desire to help others that you join because you give of your self but you get so much more in return!