A trio of Special Olympics BC soccer teams put their skills and sportsmanship on display during the inaugural Yukon Invitational Soccer Tournament in late March.
SOBC's Delta FC, the Surrey Seagulls, and the Chilliwack Wildcats travelled more than 1,400 kilometres to play against Whitehorse’s Charging Moose in the four-team tournament.
This is the first time in 22 years that Yukon has hosted a major Special Olympics event.
Joanie Hayes, SOBC's Competition and Youth Coordinator, said it was an incredible opportunity for everyone involved.
"Everyone was so excited for the chance to visit the Yukon," Hayes said. "It is such a beautiful part of Canada and such a unique opportunity for our athletes. The reception our athletes were shown was overwhelming. We are so grateful to everyone in Whitehorse for the chance to take part."
On the pitch, the Delta FC were crowned champions, defeating the Surrey Seagulls in the gold medal game.
The host team, the Charging Moose, defeated the Chilliwack Wildcats to collect bronze.
"Our athletes love to compete, but this was more than just another soccer tournament," Hayes said. "From the opening ceremonies to the chance to explore Whitehorse, it was such an amazing experience that our athletes will never forget."
Hayes said a big part of the tournament's success is the result of the hard work by Special Olympics Yukon Program Director Brettanie Deal-Porter.
"She did an incredible job. It's no easy task finding a venue, booking transportation and flights, arranging hotel rooms, ordering food, and then preparing everything for the opening ceremonies and keep the games running on time," Hayes said.