We are thrilled to announce and congratulate the 2025 nominees for Special Olympics BC’s annual provincial awards! These athletes, coaches, and volunteers have been recognized by their peers for their outstanding accomplishments, attitudes, dedication, and contributions to Special Olympics BC.
Join us in congratulating this year’s inspiring nominees! Learn more about their powerful stories by reading some of their nominators’ comments below.
Athletic Achievement Award
The Athletic Achievement Award is presented annually to a male or female athlete who has demonstrated outstanding athletic skill both in practice and competition. The 2025 nominees are:
Alex Pang , Special Olympics BC – Vancouver
“At the [2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games], Alex was in a level with four Canadians and five athletes total. He placed third and was extremely gracious and sportsman like towards all his competitors. Alex also made sure to thank other coaches from other countries for coming to Games, as well as all the volunteers and officials he saw.”
Danielle Pechet, Special Olympics BC – Vernon
“Danielle has been knocking her goals out of the park in the last couple of years. She always pushes herself to complete personal bests, and she did just that when she made [2025 Special Olympics] Team Canada to attend [Special Olympics] World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. Last season, a huge accomplishment for her was making Team BC, and she got the opportunity to represent B.C. in Calgary!”
Jesse Jensen, Special Olympics BC – Kimberley/Cranbrook
“Jesse has improved greatly in alpine skiing. At the [2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games] in Italy he was moved from Intermediate to Advanced Division. Although he didn’t win in medals, he achieved some personal bests and was competitive in all of his races. Given that he was moved into advanced from intermediate, it is incredibly impressive that this change did not phase him and he still competed to the best of his abilities.”
Max Porcher, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“Max has always challenged himself to be the best that he can be through his play and commitment to training. Max trains in the gym regularly and received certification as a personal trainer. Max demonstrates leadership qualities both on and off the floor with his fellow athletes in floor hockey. Max will often work with small groups of athletes at practice and break down/demonstrate drills to help other athletes with their skill development.”
Patrick Kusnir, Special Olympics BC – Creston
“As a dedicated and high-performing SOBC athlete, Patrick exemplifies excellence in both sportsmanship and athletic ability. His unwavering commitment and inspiring presence make him a standout in our athletic community. His positive attitude, leadership during practices, and encouragement of his peers make him an exceptional role model.”
Ron Greenhorn, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“A committed multi-sport athlete, Ron continually pushes himself to new heights. He set clear goals for himself: to reach the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games and ultimately represent his country at the World Games, and he made those dreams a reality through tireless effort and focus. To prepare, Ron trained with both Special Olympics BC and Adaptive Ski BC, dedicating himself to rigorous year-round preparation.”
Yorke Parkin, Special Olympics BC – Revelstoke
“Yorke became a member of [Special Olympics] Team Canada in 2025. Every year, Yorke trains four times a week on skis and has improved so much. Yorke takes the time to help his fellow athletes. At [the 2024 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games], he helped his fellow athletes figure out how to ski the run better.”
BC Law Enforcement Torch Run Award
The BC Law Enforcement Torch Run Award is presented annually to a Law Enforcement Torch Run member who has demonstrated significant dedication to the BC LETR and Special Olympics BC. The 2025 nominees are:
Cst. Azad Vizheh, North Vancouver RCMP
“Cst. Azad Vizheh has been coordinating and leading North Shore LETR and Polar Plunge in support of SOBC for six years. This includes the planning, organizing, fundraising, participating, raising awareness, and communicating and inviting SOBC athletes to the event as well as introducing the athletes to North Vancouver detachment employees. With Azad's leadership, the event has attracted large crowds and media outlets.”
Staff Sgt. Michelle Luca, Pitt Meadows RCMP
“For many years, Staff Sgt. Michelle has been the face of the LETR Torch Run for Ridge Meadows detachment. Michelle always ensures that the core reason we all support the LETR is to assist our local athletes. Each year that Michelle has been the lead for the Ridge Meadows Polar Plunge, it has grown not just in donations but in size. She is fully passionate about LETR and the good it can bring in the community.”
Cst. Sam Zacharias, Port Moody Police Department
“He has a keen desire to serve the community in his role and prides himself in his involvement in year-round Special Olympics activities beyond the [Torch Run], including Polar Plunge, Cops Pops and Pizza, giving Special Olympics presentations to the community and to recruits in the JIBC.”
Coach Ambition Award
The Coach Ambition Award recognizes a coach who contributes to the overall organization, promotion, and development of sport in Special Olympics. The coach demonstrates potential to create a significant and positive impact through their Special Olympics coaching role in the future. This award is new to Special Olympics BC in 2025! The inaugural nominees are:
Arjan Basra, Special Olympics BC – Surrey
“Arjan exemplifies the best qualities of a young volunteer coach: dedication, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for making a difference. He inspires athletes to push past their limits, believe in themselves, and celebrate every achievement, big or small. His leadership, compassion and unwavering support have left a lasting impact on the Special Olympics BC community.”
Kendra Parent, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“Beginning her journey with Club Fit, Kendra quickly immersed herself in a wide variety of programs, including track, soccer, basketball, and even stepping up to take over rhythmic gymnastics when the team needed a new Head Coach. She is more than a coach – she is a role model, motivator, and true ambassador for what it means to lead with compassion and ambition.”
Grassroots Coach Award
The Grassroots Coach Award is presented to a coach who works tirelessly to ensure that all athletes, regardless of their ability level, are provided with opportunities to train, improve, and compete. The 2025 nominees are:
Chris Dale, Special Olympics BC – Terrace
“He goes above and beyond to accommodate athletes' needs, arranging transportation for those who may face barriers to attendance and offering additional support outside of regular practice sessions. Chris's commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the field, court, or ice; he actively fosters a sense of belonging within the broader Special Olympics BC – Terrace community.”
Fred Gauthier, Special Olympics BC – Creston
“Fred is held in the highest regards by the athletes and fellow coaches. Fred takes the time to understand each athlete and how they learn and helps to bring the best out of each athlete. Fred embodies inclusion each and every day as he works with individuals with intellectual disabilities.”
Greg Young, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“Greg has always maintained a positive and respectful relationship with fellow coaches and parents/caregivers, contributing to a collaborative and supportive environment. Greg is an excellent team player who is 100 per cent reliable. This attribute is what makes Greg so special to the program.”
Jacky Sheng, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“Jacky Sheng is more than just a coach – she is a cornerstone of our community. Her commitment to inclusion, her unwavering support of our athletes, and her grassroots leadership make her an ideal recipient of this award. We are proud to nominate her and grateful for all she has given to our organization.”
Jessica Champigny, Special Olympics BC – Kimberley/Cranbrook
“Jessica has truly gone above and beyond to form extraordinary connections with her athletes. Jessica works with the athletes and helps build their confidence. Her personal touch and unwavering support exemplify how Jessica goes beyond just being a coach, she is a mentor, motivator, and friend to all her athletes.”
Terralyn Polege, Special Olympics BC – Surrey
“Terralyn is a dedicated and selfless volunteer coach who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure SOBC – Surrey athletes receive the support, coaching, and encouragement they need to succeed. As head coach for powerlifting, basketball and soccer, she plays a crucial role in developing athletes’ skills and confidence with her soccer team set to compete at the [2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games.]”
Howard Carter Award
The Howard Carter Award recognizes a coach who provides exceptional training to athletes, preparing them to beat personal bests and deliver high-calibre performances. This award is named after an upstanding member of the automobile business community and a great friend of Special Olympics BC, Howard Carter. Meet the 2025 nominee:
Randy James, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“Randy has a strong relationship with all athletes. They trust him, and his guidance and support is very meaningful for them. He focuses on skill development and regularly attends workshops and conferences to improve his skills to in turn help the athletes develop theirs. He as always encouraging athletes to beat their personal best and is often heard saying ‘you can do this!’”
President's Award
The President's Award is presented to a non-coaching volunteer who is dedicated to planning, organizing and operating sport programs, fundraisers, or competitions. The 2025 nominees are:
Alex Blum-Walker, Special Olympics BC – Terrace
“Alex is loved by everyone. He is very supportive and understanding for the athletes’ individual needs, and eager to work together with their families, caregivers, and support networks to create positive experiences for each athlete that enters a Special Olympics program.”
Dave McLean, Special Olympics BC – Kimberley/Cranbrook
“Dave McLean exemplifies the mission and values of Special Olympics BC through his dedication, inclusivity and willingness to help. He consistently puts the athletes and the community first, ensuring everyone has the best experience possible. Dave’s commitment to the mission of SOBC is evident in everything he does and his support, generosity and hard work inspire others.”
Heiko Behn, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“As treasurer for more than 20 years, Heiko has played a vital role in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the local program. His diligence, integrity, and attention to detail have been instrumental in allowing athletes and coaches to focus on what matters most – training and competition – while he works quietly behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.”
Kailee Bowman, Special Olympics BC – Victoria
“Kailee breathes Special Olympics and strives to make everyone’s life better. She includes all athletes and believes every athlete has the ability to do anything they put their heart into. Kailee’s dedication to recruiting volunteers, finding space for practice, and filling positions on the Local Committee are all testaments of what she will do to ensure programs are still running for the benefit of all athletes.”
Phyllis Baudais, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“Phyllis advocates for inclusion and goes above and beyond to ensure athletes have the best experience possible. Her positive and caring nature encourages the athletes to give their best effort in all they do. She is highly regarded by all volunteers, athletes and families. We are very fortunate to have her as a member of our Local.”
Spirit of Sport
The Spirit of Sport Award is presented annually to a male or female Special Olympics BC athlete who exemplifies the true meaning of sportsmanship. The 2025 nominees are:
Brogan Beliveau, Special Olympics BC – Grand Forks
“Brogan is the living embodiment of the Special Olympics spirit, a testament to both fierce competitiveness and unwavering courage. Beyond his own drive, he possesses a remarkable capacity to celebrate the achievements of others, even those from different teams.”
Jonathan Robins, Special Olympics BC – Creston
“A natural leader, Jonathan is often the first to arrive and the last to leave. He helps set up equipment, mentors younger or newer athletes, and models respect toward officials, coaches, and opponents alike. His energy is infectious, his encouragement sincere, and his belief in the value of teamwork unwavering.”
Melissa Andrews, Special Olympics BC – Surrey
“Melissa is a shining example of what it means to be a Special Olympics athlete, demonstrating respect, kindness, and unwavering positivity in all her interactions. She treats coaches, teammates, and community members with the utmost respect and always approaches every situation with a pleasant and enthusiastic demeanor.”
Paul Riley, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“Paul has been involved with Special Olympics for 18 years. Paul gets along with every one of his coaches and fellow athletes. He will always cheer the players on and help them in any way he can. Paul is a very kind and soft-spoken person. He is a great asset in any sport he is enrolled in. He is very dedicated to our Local.”
Samantha McLean, Special Olympics BC – Kimberley/Cranbrook
“Samantha has built strong and positive relationships with everyone in the Special Olympics BC community, from fellow athletes to coaches, family members, and supporters. She is known for her ability to connect with others, showing kindness, patience, and empathy in every interaction.”
A heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s well-deserving nominees! We look forward to celebrating the winners soon – stay tuned!