Whether at a floor hockey game or a Local Committee meeting, Special Olympics BC – Prince Rupert Treasurer Renee Pottle’s favourite thing about SOBC is seeing the enthusiasm of the athletes and their supporters.

Pottle and her husband Kevin started coaching floor hockey with SOBC to support her brother Jesse, who is a Special Olympics athlete. She said working with the diverse group of athletes on the team was a rewarding experience and she learned a lot. When Pottle was no longer able to attend evening practices because of family commitments, she jumped at an opportunity to become SOBC – Prince Rupert’s Treasurer so she could continue to make a difference with Special Olympics.

Pottle says she loves being part of SOBC – Prince Rupert’s inclusive community. She says the Local is always welcoming volunteers, and there are plenty of great opportunities to get involved for people with different schedules and skillsets.

When did you start with Special Olympics, and how did you get involved?

I started out as a floor hockey coach in 2010 with my husband Kevin. My brother Jesse was diagnosed with Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome at the age of two and we grew up very close. Jesse lives with us and we thought it would be a great way to get him more involved with the programs offered in our community. Shortly after we started a family, and since my husband works shift work, evening practices became very hard to attend. An opportunity came up to become Treasurer and I thought it was the perfect position for me because it didn't keep me away from home in the evenings but it still allowed me to be involved with the organization.

What has been your most memorable Special Olympics experience?

Volunteering as a coach was by far my most memorable experience with Special Olympics. Each practice we learned something new about each athlete and having such a diverse group really allowed us to learn new approaches that worked for each individual. This was both a challenge and very rewarding, and it taught us so much.

What is your favourite thing about being involved with SOBC?

My favourite thing about being involved with Special Olympics is seeing the enthusiasm of both the parents and the athletes, whether you are attending a meeting or coaching a sport. Having an organization that allows community inclusion and being part of that is so amazing.

What would you like others to know about SOBC – Prince Rupert?

There are so many areas that you can volunteer for with Special Olympics. From coaching to fundraising to various positions on our Local Committee, we always welcome volunteers in any capacity.