2025 Winner: Samantha McLean
We’re excited to celebrate Samantha McLean as the 2025 winner of the Special Olympics BC Spirit of Sport Award! Since joining Special Olympics in 2018, McLean has shown incredible dedication, growth, and sportsmanship.
“Samantha demonstrates unwavering dedication to her sport by attending every practice, no matter the circumstances, and encouraging her teammates to do the same,” say her nominators.
This Special Olympics BC – Kimberley/Cranbrook athlete is known for being kind, supportive, and always pushing herself to improve.
McLean takes part in many sports and programs, including 5-pin bowling, cross country skiing, basketball, bocce, and Club Fit.
“She maintains a positive attitude, even in challenging situations, and works tirelessly to improve her own skills while supporting others in the process.”
She also plays important roles off the field. As an Athlete Representative on the SOBC – Kimberley/Cranbrook Local Committee, she speaks up for her fellow athletes and brings their ideas and concerns to local meetings. As a Health Messenger, she shares helpful information about staying healthy, both in person and online. She’s always looking for ways to support others.
“Samantha demonstrates unwavering dedication to her sport by attending every practice, no matter the circumstances, and encouraging her teammates to do the same,” say her nominators.
McLean is very active in her local Special Olympics community. She goes to every event she can, such as parades, fundraisers, and team-building activities, often bringing friends and teammates along with her.
“Samantha also attends our monthly committee meetings and provides thorough and informative updates on what she has been up to, any concerns or ideas from other athletes, and a personal look into how the sports are going that she participates in."
Outside of sports, McLean works hard in school and still finds time to be involved in everything she can.
“She inspires all who meet her to embrace challenges with bravery and to support one another with kindness and respect,” her nominators say.
Special Olympics BC is proud to award McLean the 2025 Spirit of Sport Award and congratulates all the 2025 award nominees for their hard work and achievements.
