Benjamin Maeseele is what some might call a well-traveled athlete. Originally born in Belgium, Maeseele moved to Calgary only three years ago after living in Houston, where he competed on behalf of Special Olympics Texas.
“When we moved to Calgary, we immediately looked up if there was Special Olympics here,” he said. “Special Olympics here is a lot bigger and a lot more serious than in Houston.
Maeseele is one of 11 athletes, coaches, and mission staff who will be representing Alberta on the world stage at the 2017 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria. The talented ice guru will be competing in both Figure Skating Dance and Freeskate.
“I am very proud and also a bit shocked that I came so far and will be on Team Canada during the Winter Games,” he said. “Canada is a strong team in winter sports and I feel the pressure to do well. This is such an amazing journey. Who would have thought I would be selected for Team Canada?"
Maeseele’s modesty is matched only by his talent. The star figure skater has competed on both the provincial and national scale, taking home a gold and silver medal at the 2016 National Winter Games in Corner Brook, Newfoundland.
Originally drawn by the comradery and sporting opportunities, Maeseele said Special Olympics has provided him with an outlet for his athletic aspirations.
“I always wanted to do competition and Special Olympics offered me that opportunity,” he said. “I have been able to skate three times a week to build and perfect my program. Thanks to Special Olympics Alberta, I was able to meet athletes from B.C., Quebec, and Newfoundland. I have learned to work hard in the gym and on skating rink, control my weight and diet, and concentrate for competitions.”
Like most of the athletes heading to the 2017 World Winter Games, Maeseele has already started training for the big event.
“I have a schedule with training sessions, exercise, and also controlling my weight,” he said. “Mrs. Barb is a very good coach and she pushes me to do better. It will be great to meet athletes from all over the world and to perform in front of international judges.”
“I am also excited that my Freeskate music is by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who lived in Austria."
When he’s not busy on the ice rink, Maeseele also participates in downhill skiing and soccer.
“Thank you to everybody who has helped me to get this far. I will do my best at the Winter Games whether I win a medal or not.”
Be sure you cheer on Benjamin Maeseele and all our Team Canada members. Show your Team Canada pride as they enter the final months of training by following the action on social media #SOTeamCanada17 #Austria2017 @SpecialOlAlberta @2017Austria.