Special Olympics BC Local
Campbell River
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
On February 29th 1984 I started my job and the head coach for the new swim club handed me a registration form and bam, I became the coach for swimming, 5-pin bowling, floor hockey, and Volunteer Coordinator!
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 lucky 13th National Games. I have attended as a coach for swimming and snowshoeing!
What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2024?
This year is very special for me as it will be a celebration of 40 years as volunteering and I have an amazing team of coaches and athletes. I am very excited that three of the coaches will be traveling with their sons. I made a commitment to myself 14 years ago that some day one of the athletes from Campbell River would be wearing a SO Team BC jacket and in February, it will become a reality!
What is/are your goal(s) for these National Games?
To celebrate the athletes' accomplishments and support the coaches to become future leaders in the SO Team BC. I am also excited to watch Reise and Burton Collins walk in to opening ceremonies wearing their SO Team BC jackets.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
Watching Hazen compete in Korea, and seeing a few of my SO Team BC athletes whom I have coached for a few years receive a letter from SO Team Canada.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
It is an opportunity for the athletes to grow in ways that only this opportunity can provide. The feeling of pride to represent our province. To be away from home in a different province. To see the camaraderie and support that the athletes and coaches give each other. The absolute pleasure that each team member feels when someone achieves success. It is a unique and amazing experience.
What storylines are you excited to see develop in your SO Team BC sport team leading up to the National Games?
How much the athletes fitness levels improve. Seeing the improvement in their health. Watching the athletes' confidence grow and the changes that takes place while at National Games.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
You will never regret opening yourself to the possibilities that Special Olympics has to offer. It is an organization that provides you with endless opportunities to fill your soul with positivity. It takes time and commitment but you will never regret the opportunity to share in the glory of your athletes' success.