Each year, at our Annual Awards, Special Olympics PEI honours two of our most outstanding coaches who, through their commitment to coaching, help our athletes reach their athletic pursuits. The 2020-2021 Maritime Electric Male and Female Coaches of the Year were Allan Gillis and Tracey Demeulenaere.
Allan Gillis
Allan has been involved with Special Olympics PEI for five years and is a part of a strong family tradition of volunteering. Allan decided to become a volunteer coach knowing how much his wife, Fran Gillis, loves her involvement in Special Olympics. He figured it was a great way to spend more time with her and his family, given the commitment they have all made to athletes in the Summerside area.
Allan is currently the head coach for the Summerside basketball program, as well as the assistant coach for both the bocce and 5-pin bowling programs, also in Summerside. Allan is also quick to volunteer at numerous fundraising events. His commitment to the growth of the Summerside basketball program has helped the sport grow on PEI, and we may see representation at future major games because of this grassroots development. Inclusive of all athletes, Allan always goes above expectations to ensure that athletes can participate by coordinating rides and assisting in events.
Tracey Demeulenaere
Tracey has been the Head Coach of Charlottetown's Active Start program since the fall of 2017. Her whole family is actually very involved, each fulfilling key roles. Her involvement began when Kelsey, her daughter, was an athlete in the Active Start program, and the program was seeing a transition in volunteers. Tracey stepped up to fill the role. This program has a wide range of ages and abilities. Tracey has found a good balance in fun activities to keep the program fun and engaging for participants to practice and learn fundamental movement skills in an inclusive environment.
Tracey and her family have been very open about sharing their story to help others new to the journey of having a child with an intellectual disability. Their efforts extend beyond program with a commitment to fundraising for the programs and services offered across the Island. Tracey volunteers with the Healthy Athletes Special Smiles and Health Promotion screenings, sharing her background and expertise as a dental hygienist.
Join the Cheer Squad
Show your support for Special Olympics PEI by joining our Cheer Squad. Buying an O Christmas Tree bulb this holiday season will show your support for our athletes, volunteer and coaches - coaches like Tracey and Allan. Buy your bulb today: Buy a Bulb
