Meet motionball PEI Event Directors, Ben MacDonald and Ethan MacFadyen

2026 is the International Year of Volunteers. All year long we will be highlighting and celebrating our amazing volunteers.

Recently motionball PEI hosted their 11th annual Marathon of Sport. Beyond raising funds for Special Olympics PEI, motionball connects the next generation of Canadians to the heart of our movement, our athletes. motionball PEI is run by a volunteer Organizing Committee. The 2026 Marathon of Sport saw the transition of Organizing Committees. Following 7 successful years as Event Director, Ben MacDonald and his Committee were on hand this year in support of new Event Director, Ethan MacFadyen and his new Committee of volunteers. 

We asked Ben and Ethan a few questions about their experience volunteering with motionball PEI in support of Special Olympics PEI. 

Question: What is your favourite part about being a member of motionball PEI’s Committee?

Ben: Seeing people out in the community before and after the event, and hearing their excitement, support, and enthusiasm for motionball. It’s pretty special to see how much the event means to people and how it continues to grow within our community.

Ethan: My favourite part of being on the committee is working with an incredible group of people who are passionate about making a difference in our community. It’s rewarding to see everyone come together with the shared goal of creating a fun, inclusive event that supports such a great cause.

Q: What is your favourite overall part of motionball PEI’s Marathon of Sport?

Ben: For me, it’s watching teams experience Marathon of Sport for the first time. They come in focused on, “How much money can be raised?” and then something clicks during the day. They experience the magic of MOS, have an incredible time, and realize it’s about so much more than fundraising — it’s about inclusion, community, friendship, and being fully integrated alongside our Special Olympics athletes. Seeing that switch happen is one of my favourite parts of the entire day.

Ethan: Seeing the SO athletes get involved, have fun, and be celebrated throughout the day is the best part. The energy and smiles on everyone’s faces are a great reminder of what the event is all about.

Q: Why should others consider supporting Special Olympics PEI?

Ben: Supporting Special Olympics PEI means being part of something bigger than yourself. You’re helping create opportunities for athletes to compete, belong, build friendships, and feel truly included in their community. Come be part of it, experience the magic for yourself, and see just how much of an impact you can make.

Ethan: Supporting Special Olympics PEI means helping create more opportunities for athletes of all abilities to participate in sport, build confidence, and develop meaningful connections. It is a wonderful organization that is successful with the support of the island community.

Learn more about motionball PEI

If you are interested in learning more out motionball PEI, please visit the motionball PEI website or follow them on Instagram.