ALTERNATE COACH - SWIMMING

PROVINCE: Nova Scotia

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

For 22 years.

How is your life different since joining Special Olympics?

Through Special Olympics I have met and been mentored by some of the most amazing

people one could ever hope to encounter. I have witnessed and been inspired by true

sportsmanship. I have seen determination defined in action. I have found an organization that I truly believe benefits all who come in contact with it, and can thus fully commit myself to being part of it. I have been personally challenged to do better and be better.

What do you like most about the sport you will be competing in at Special Olympics World Summer Games Berlin 2023?

Swimming is wonderful because it is both a team sport and an individual sport. Athletes can, and do, work hard to set personal bests in their own individual races and events. They also work together in relays. When athletes train together, they push each other to be better. When they compete as a team, they encourage each other to do better than they may individually think they can perform.

What is your proudest moment with Special Olympics?

There have been so many special moments with Special Olympics it is hard to identify just one as being the proudest. Certainly, watching a son compete for Special Olympics Team Canada was phenomenal. But, having an athlete who came to my club afraid of the water gradually overcome that fear, develop confidence and ability, and go on to represent Nova Scotia at Canada Games, has been incredibly rewarding.

What does Special Olympics and attending World Games mean to you?

It is an honor to be part of Team Canada. It is an opportunity to learn from, and with others, involved in Special Olympics from across the country. It is inspiring and motivating to see what other coaches and athletes across the country are doing. To be able to support athletes as they work towards competing for their country, and seeing growth in their athletic performance, independence and self confidence is incredibly rewarding.

What is your goal for Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023?

My goal is to help each athlete have a positive experience, both in and out of the pool. I want all athletes to leave the games feeling good about their experience and celebrating some achievements; medals won, best times, new friends made, new things tried successfully, etc.