Celebrating our Members
2024-2025 PEI Mutual Insurance Company Athletes of the Year (3)
Nominees: Sophia Allan, Sarah Halman, Matthew Jehn, Tommy Ling, Ellen MacNearney, Callum McEwan,
WINNERS
This incredible trio represented PEI very well at the 2025 World Winter Games in Turin, Italy! Each returning after having incredible performances and earning medals on the highest stage.
Tommy Ling
Tommy has been a very dedicated member of the SOPEI and never gives up. He pushes through pain, he deals with different languages, he is the first to cheer on his fellow athletes and came home with a silver medal and 5th place ribbon. Tommy is a clear example that age is only a number and competitive experiences are possible at any stage through Special Olympics.
Ellen MacNearney
Ellen represented PEI yet again, and won 3 gold medals. Success at this level is not new for Ellen and she always puts in her best effort. Ellen is a role model for others. In addition to sport she is an important Athlete Leader.
Callum McEwen
Callum was our youngest athlete to represent PEI on the world stage, and won a Bronze medal! Callum was dedicated to his training and this sport while overcoming new experiences and challenges along the way.
2024-2025 Maritime Electric Coaches of the Year (2)
Nominees: Donna Campbell, Kieran Goodwin, Shayne Hogan, Charlie Koughan, Debbie Metcalfe, Ellen Murphy
WINNERS
Kieran Goodwin
This is Kieran’s second time as a Coach of the Year. He is a year-round coach and the excitement the athletes bring to weekly programs is Kieran’s favorite part of volunteering. He is a fantastic coach to all the athletes and an amazing role model. Kieran is always positive and loves to bring the best out in anyone he is surrounded with. He has coordinated connections with other groups he is a part of that provide additional opportunity to SO athletes and fosters inclusive communities.
Debbie Metcalfe
Debbie is also a year-round coach and this marks her second time as a Coach of the Year. The swim team of seven athletes that she was a part of the past summer saw each athlete earn multiple podium appearances and many new personal best times. This has not been the first time her and other coaches have seen great success at Provincials or Local meets. All of the athletes love her and her approach to coaching. Debbie has lots of patience and is very consistent with her approach. She is very encouraging and empowers athletes to become more independent and successful in their personal lives. Debbie’ approach has been to empower the entire coaching team in her program and continues to be a strong mentor to new coaches.
Additional 2024-2025 Award Winners
Department of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture Sport Volunteer of the Year Award - Kaylee Doiron
Dr. Frank Hayden Award - Kelsey Demeulenaere
Chris MacPherson Spirit Award presented by ADL - Evan Blood
President’s Award - Stingray - Ocean 100 & Hot 105.5
Facility of the Year - Montague Curling Club
David Andrew Memorial Award - Larry and Jackie Robbins
LETR Member of the Year - Mike Demeulenaere
Volunteer Pins
Volunteers who have contributed 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years of service to the Special Olympics movement are also honoured.
This year we unfortunately lost a dedicated volunteer who devoted his time to supporting his son, grandson, and numerous athletes in our organization at program, competition, and in their communities. This year’s Volunteer Milestone presentations were dedicated in honor of Rickey Burns.
5 Years - Krista Campbell, Josephine Clements, Dr. Melissa Cudmore, Mike Demeulenaere, Naomi Demeulenaere, Jennifer Neman, Kailey Fay, Mackenzie Gallant, Shayne Hogan, Troy Livingstone, Ellen MacNearney, Heidi Mallett, Ellen Murphy, and Brody Webster
10 Years - Rob Horne, Kathleen MacNearney, and Dr. Joanne Reid
15 Years - Mirella 'Mimi' Micalef
20 Years - Judy Gallant, Steve Loggie, Allan Stewart, and Corey Tremere.
25 Years - Karen Reeves
2024 Rising Star Coach of the Year - Morgan Jardine
2021 Rob Plunkett Law Enforcement Torch Run Award - Roger Steadman
2019 Dr. Frank Hayden Lifetime Achievement Award - Tommy MacGuigan
2018 SOC Female Athlete of the Year - Ellen MacNearney
2017 Frank Selke Fundraising Volunteer of the Year - Sue Skeffington
2015 SOC Female Coach of the Year - Ann Kilby
2013 SOC Female Athlete of the Year - Ellen MacNearney
2012 SOC Team of the Year - Team PEI Curling Team
2011 SOC Female Athlete of the Year - Alyssa Chapman
2011 SOC Team of the Year - PEI Jays Softball Team
2008 Jim Thompson Award - Peter Howatt
2005 SOC Team of the Year - PEI Stars Floor Hockey Team
2004 SOC Team of the Year - Paul Phillips Rink
2002 Jim Thompson Award - Cecil Villard
2000 SOC Female Athlete of the Year - Suzie Smith