2025 Winner: Arjan Basra
Special Olympics BC is proud to announce SOBC – Surrey coach Arjan Basra as the winner of the inaugural Special Olympics BC Coach Ambition Award! While Basra has officially coached for two years, his journey with Special Olympics began much earlier, assisting his mother and supporting his sisters in rhythmic gymnastics.
Today, he leads as the SOBC – Surrey Head Coach of floorball and serves as Assistant Coach for bocce and Club Fit, inspiring athletes through every role he takes on.
“His early involvement planted the seeds for a lifelong passion for inclusive sport. It was clear that he had a natural ability to support and uplift those around him,” his nominators say.
In 2024, Basra led a bocce team to the Regional Qualifiers and they earned a spot to compete in the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games in Prince George.
“His ability to create a structured yet fun learning environment led to noticeable improvements in both individual and team performance,” his nominators say.
When floorball was introduced in Surrey in fall 2024, Basra eagerly stepped up to launch and lead the program, building it from the ground up. Thanks to his leadership, the transition from floor hockey was seamless, and two groups now train under his guidance.
“He has transformed from a young volunteer into a confident leader who continually goes above and beyond to support our athletes.”
Currently in his first year of university, Basra ensures to make time for his coaching.
“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.”
He has put in extra hours volunteering at fundraising events, developed creative and engaging training sessions that keep the athletes motivated and excited to participate, and has fostered strong relationships with athletes, families, and fellow coaches.
“Arjan has an incredibly bright future as a Special Olympics coach, with the potential to make a lasting impact on athletes and the organization for years to come.”
New in 2025, this award is for a coach who demonstrates potential to create a significant and positive impact through their Special Olympics coaching role in the future. They are a positive role model for athletes and other coaches, providing stable and consistent leadership qualities. The coach practices co-operation, self-discipline and respect for officials and opponents.
Special Olympics BC is proud to award Basra the 2025 Coach Ambition Award and congratulates all the 2025 award nominees for their hard work and achievements.
