Special Olympics BC Local
Vancouver
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I got involved with Special Olympics in 2019-2020, when a neighbour – and current SO Team BC coach, Jessica Chapelski – encouraged me to dust off my skates and get involved with the figure skating program.
Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, which other National Games were you part of and in what role(s)?
This will be my first Special Olympics Canada Games.
What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2024?
I’m very grateful to be part of Special Olympics Team BC as participant of the NextGen Coaching Program, and to be part of such an incredible contingent of athletes and coaches!
What is/are your goal(s) for these National Games?
My goals for these National Games are to support the athletes and fellow coaches, gain experience coaching in a high stakes environment, and to collect as many high-fives and hugs as I can.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
My favourite Special Olympics experience to date was attending the 2023 SOBC Winter Games in Kamloops and getting to see the athletes excel, both in and out of the competition spotlight.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
They’re so proud to represent their province, demonstrate their skills and hard work, and support their teammates.
What storylines are you excited to see develop in your SO Team BC sport team leading up to the National Games?
I’m excited to see how SO Team BC figure skaters support one another as this group of athletes contains seasoned veterans and first-timers to the national stage.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
The only thing you’ll regret about getting involved with Special Olympics is that you didn’t do it sooner.