2026 Winner: Jacky Sheng

For more than 20 years, Sheng has been a committed and caring coach, volunteer, and leader in the Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo community. Her dedication to creating inclusive, encouraging, and meaningful sport experiences for athletes of all abilities reflects the heart of coaching. 

Sheng has coached in multiple sports, including athletics, soccer, Club Fit, swimming, and 5-pin bowling, and she is always willing to step in whenever extra support is needed at practices, games, or competitions. She has shared her leadership at Special Olympics BC Games, SO Canada Games, and BC Games, and she currently serves as a training coach for swimming and athletics.  

Sheng goes above and beyond with her contributions in leadership roles in addition to coaching. She has shared her time and skills with the SOBC – Nanaimo Local Committee as Fundraiser, Program Coordinator, and Athlete Development Coordinator supporting the athlete council. 

Known for her warm, positive, and encouraging approach, Sheng is deeply respected by fellow coaches and highly valued by athletes. She leads with kindness, patience, and genuine care, building strong relationships with athletes, caregivers, coaches, and volunteers. She is also a strong ambassador for Special Olympics, helping spread the word about programs and encouraging new athletes and volunteers to get involved. 

Sheng prioritizes the overall development of her athletes, adapting and modifying her coaching to meet a wide range of needs while helping athletes stay active, engaged, and connected. During the challenges of COVID-19, she played an instrumental role in keeping programs thriving through online opportunities and outdoor in-person activities. Her nominators describe her as a constant presence whose athletes trust her mentorship, encouragement, and belief that every athlete should have opportunities to compete, improve, and advance. 

Her commitment can be seen in the extra time she gives to help athletes reach their goals. Sheng has organized additional training sessions for athletes preparing for BC Games and National Games, providing individualized technical support and practice. She is currently supporting a swimmer three mornings a week at 6 a.m. to help the athlete train properly for National Games. Sheng continuously makes time for Special Olympics BC and for the athletes who know they can rely on her. 

Special Olympics BC is proud to recognize Sheng with the 2026 Grassroots Coach Award, and congratulates all the 2026 award nominees for their hard work, dedication, and achievements.