Stories

Sharing the joy of sport

Special Olympics has received many incredible stories from people whose lives have been changed and enriched through sport, friendship, fun and mentorship. Some of those people have been kind enough to share their stories with you.

Visit our photo and video galleries featuring our athletes, coaches, and volunteers.

Volunteer Melissa Tobin smiles for a photo with an athlete on a soccer field.
Volunteering with Special Olympics just as important as Med School for this Newfoundland & Labrador coach
When Melissa Tobin started Medical School last year, she didn’t even question continuing her role as a Special Olympics swim coach. Although the 23-year-old knew her first year studying medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland was a major time commitment, Monday night swim practice was just as important.
view full
Steve Topham poses for a photo with Special Olympics rhythmic gymnasts as they all put their hands in to show off their bracelets.
1% better everyday with Steve Topham: a 10-week functional workout program
Join Special Olympics Team Canada's official Strength & Conditioning Coach Steve Topham, for a 10-week functional workout program, taking place on...
view full
Jayne Burton and her son pose for a photo on a golf course
Special Olympics BC has changed Jayne Burton’s life as a volunteer – and parent
Langley’s Jayne Burton has been volunteering for Special Olympics British Columbia for the past 10 years. She originally signed up to help her son Christian, a Special Olympics BC – Langley athlete...
view full
Athletes stand for a photo with WWE star Becky Lynch
Special Olympics School of Strength: Your at home workout routine
Looking for a workout routine you can do from the inside of your home? We're excited to introduce you to the School of Strength! Get started with...
view full
"An athlete hugs coach Susan Altomare from behind at a bowling alley."
This Manitoba volunteer gets as much – or more – out of Special Olympics as the athletes
From my volunteer and coaching experience, I have become more empathetic, patient and understanding. I am better at problem solving and quick thinking.
view full
Martin McSween poses for a photo with his ski team.
It’s been 30 years and counting for this Special Olympics Alberta alpine ski coach
Alberta’s Martin McSween was introduced to Special Olympics 30 years ago while working at a group home for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Drumheller.
view full
A young volunteer takes a selfie with an athlete on a sunny day
Meet this 15-year-old Special Olympics Saskatchewan volunteer making a difference in her community
MEET SPECIAL OLYMPICS SASKATCHEWAN'S JILL DOBBIN Special Olympics Saskatchewan coach Jill Dobbin started volunteering in Kindersley when she was just...
view full
A group of two softball teams pose for a team photo on a baseball diamond
This is why Donna Hoar volunteers for Special Olympics Nova Scotia
I volunteer for ME! The pure joy and love of life experienced through interacting with our athletes is unmatched anywhere else.
view full
Two Special Olympics athletes hold up signs
A World Down Syndrome Day message brought to you by Special Olympics athletes
These Special Olympics athletes want you to know that they should have full participation in decision making about matters relating to or affecting their lives.
view full
Special Olympics North Bay athlete Matty poses for a photo while outside cross country skiing.
This is how Special Olympics coaches and athletes are staying active – and connected – amid the COVID-19 risks
Special Olympics Ontario’s Rebecca Cuff is one of many volunteer coaches going the extra mile to make sure athletes stay active, healthy and safe amid...
view full