The Power of Returning: Chris Vanderwel’s Commitment to Special Olympics

For over eight years, Chris Vanderwel has been a dedicated coach with Special Olympics BC, beginning his journey in Richmond in 2013. He quickly embraced the role of head track and field coach, driven by a passion for sport and inclusion. In 2019, Chris made the difficult decision to step back from coaching to focus on relocating his growing family, but returned in 2023 bringing renewed energy and dedication to his role.

Reflecting on this break, Chris shares, "I loved coaching so much that I wanted to give more than I could, and it was hard to take a step back. But with my second child on the way and a busy schedule, it was time to prioritize family." Despite his decision, he made a promise: "I told Special Olympics British Columbia, I'll be gone for a while, but not forever." His return to coaching was sparked by a Facebook post from an athlete in his new town of Delta, British Columbia, seeking a track coach. When his wife saw it, she simply said, "I think it's time for you to go back."

Chris’s connection to Special Olympics began unexpectedly when a friend suggested he try coaching. "I was not heavily aware of the Special Olympics organization before, but a friend thought I’d be a good fit. Two weeks later, I was the head coach of track." His coaching philosophy centres on what he calls “intuitive coaching,” where every athlete’s emotional, physical, and environmental needs are closely observed and supported. “Every athlete, every day is different, and I focus on creating a positive experience for them while helping them achieve their personal best." 

One of Chris's most memorable moments was coaching Team BC at the Special Olympics Canada Games Antigonish 2018. "I’ll never forget that experience. The coaching team was amazing—we complemented each other so well. I was tasked with leading warm-ups, and I promised every athlete I’d do the exercises alongside them. By the end of the week, I was probably the most limber—and the most tired—I’d ever been!" 

Coaching Special Olympics athletes has shaped Chris in profound ways, "being a coach has really helped me educate the public," Chris explains. "I've organized events, for example, I organized an exhibition basketball game between our Richmond Firefighters Charitable Society (Local 1286) and Special Olympics athletes. These opportunities allow me to show others my passion for Special Olympics and the power of inclusion in sport." He is continuously moved by how deeply the athletes care for each other - and for him. "Even years after moving away from my Richmond athletes, I feel a wave of emotions every time I see them."

Chris’s family has played a central role in coaching journey. His wife, Kiri, and children Finley and Lila, have attended many events, cheering him and his athletes on. "There’s been a lot of patience from my wife’s side, allowing me to step away to support great groups and communities," Chris shares. In fact, during the 2018 Team BC training camps, Kiri was pregnant with their first child, whose due date was just two days after camp. Finley was then only seven months old when Chris attended National Games later that year. Now six years old, Finley, along with their daughter Lila, have grown up immersed in the spirit of Special Olympics. 

Looking back on his time as a coach, Chris offers one simple yet powerful message: “I’ve never looked back. These athletes are so personable, and they care deeply about one another. Coaching has taught me so much about inclusion, and it has allowed me to educate others about diversity in sport.”