Annabel Stanley

Special Olympics Team BC 2024: Cross Country Skiing
Annabel Stanley portrait

Special Olympics BC Local

Kelowna

When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?

About 15 years ago when my son, Francis joined SOBC – Kelowna in cross country skiing.

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, it will be my fifth, but my first as head coach.

What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2024?

An extended family which gives me great joy.

What is/are your goal(s) for these National Games?

To be the best head coach I can be and make sure the athletes and coaches have a great experience.

What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?

One of my athletes in Corner Brook didn’t have a medal and the team rallied together to make a medal which he wore proudly for the duration of the games and all the way home. It’s teamwork that makes the great memories.

What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)

They take this honour very seriously one and all.

What storylines are you excited to see develop in your SO Team BC sport team leading up to the National Games?

Bringing new athletes to National Games and sharing the journey with new coaches and training coaches as they follow in great footsteps, or ski tracks!

What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?

I would tell them to come out and try it, they will love it and they will be excited to come back every week! I did and loved it!

 

SO TEAM BC 2024 ROSTER

SO TEAM BC 2024 HOMEPAGE