Special Olympics BC Local
Comox Valley
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I initially got involved with Special Olympics in 1989 as a volunteer with the local floor hockey program. In 1993, I took over as head coach of the program and have remained in that role ever 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)?
No, this will be my eighth Special Olympics Canada National Games. Previous Games I have attended are:
- 2004: Ottawa, head coach for floor hockey
- 2004: Charlottetown, head coach for floor hockey
- 2008: Quebec City, head coach for floor hockey
- 2010: London, assistant coach for athletics
- 2016: Corner Brook, head coach for floor hockey
- 2018: Antigonish, assistant coach for athletics
- 2020: Thunder Bay, head coach for floor hockey
What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2024?
Being a part of any team selected to represent your province is both an honour and privilege. I am excited to coach athletes at the 2024 National Winter Games and help them achieve their full potential.
What is/are your goal(s) for these National Games?
Having lost to Team Ontario in the "A" Division gold medal floor hockey game at the last two National Winter Games (2016 and 2020), one of our team goals is to win the "A" Division gold medal and defeat Team Ontario.
Another goal that I have is that every member of my team compete (injury-free) at their full potential and experience satisfaction in their success, regardless of the outcome.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
Over the past 34 years, I have so many amazing memories that it is very difficult to choose just one. One that stands out was the first time our team won a gold medal at the 2003 Provincial Winter Games in Kamloops.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
Many of the athletes I coach have competed together as part of the same team for 15 years. Our athletes are excited about the prospect of competing in Calgary. Many of our athletes still feel the disappointment of losing the gold medal game at the last two National Winter Games but are very proud of achieving silver. Our athletes are focused, determined, and proud to represent B.C. at the 2024 National Winter Games.
What storylines are you excited to see develop in your SO Team BC sport team leading up to the National Games?
I am excited to see our athletes continue to grow, develop, and improve their skill level as we approach the National Games.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
Being involved in Special Olympics is a life-changing experience. The reward of seeing your hard work, commitment, and dedication as a volunteer or coach translate into growth, development, fulfillment of potential, and achievement by your athletes is extremely rewarding. Special Olympics provides amazing opportunities for professional growth and development. They support coaches who want to excel within their sport and provide opportunity for involvement within communities to anyone wanting to make a difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.