Walde Libera

Special Olympics Team BC 2020 Speed Skating Coach
Walde Libera

When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?    

Speed skating coach Don Bruneau invited us to join the group at Planet Ice 19 years ago.

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 second National Games - the first one was 2012 in St. Albert, as a speed skating assistant coach.

What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2020?    

I love working with the athletes and preparing them emotionally and physically so they are ready to compete at their best for Team BC. The reward is seeing their excitement on their faces when they cross the finish line.

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

Come back with as many personal bests and beat our medal count from the 2016 National Games.

What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?

I have to say the competitions are exciting on their own but the Opening Ceremonies and wrap-up dances are unbelievable; be prepared to dance up a storm. I've seen it many times at Provincials and Nationals. 

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

I think they are very excited about the adventure, meeting and making new friends and share a great experience they will always remember.

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

Were not the biggest province but we have the best athletes, maybe just maybe we can beat our medal count from Corner Brook?

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

If you want to see true joy, genuine heart, and the real commitment of our athletes, join the group! Special Olympics will give you a truer perspective of what is really important in this world.

The coaches are just as wonderful as the athletes, they will inspire you and you can also receive certified coaching courses free of charge.