Meet Softball Athlete, Ben Matheson

July 19, 2025

Ben Matheson joined Special Olympics 2 years ago. Through Special Olympics Ben is finding encouragement as he works towards being more independent, in sport and in life.

Ben is one of the newest members of Team PEI Softball, and is competing this weekend at the Special Olympics New Brunswick Provincial Games. With the support of his mom, Jean, who is travelling with Team PEI in a support capacity, Ben is working towards being more independent. While Jean is travelling with Team PEI to help support Ben, Ben is taking a few big steps this year by travelling on the bus and staying in the hotel with a teammate. This is a big change from last winter’s Floor Hockey competition in Cobequid when he travelled over and stayed in a hotel separately with his mom. Jean has a goal for Ben that he will some day be able to travel with Team PEI independently.

Ben’s interest for the sport of Softball first developed from watching his cousins play. Now, Ben loves all aspects of the game. Looking ahead to the opportunity to represent PEI at Provincial Games, Ben’s mother, Jean Matheson describes him as being “really, really excited! He packed this morning (2 days prior to departure).”

Special Olympics really has given Ben the encouragement he needed. Everyone is at the same level here, and it feels so supportive. The coaches have been amazing, and just so encouraging of Ben. They are helping him become more independent too by giving him small suggestions to improve, while always encouraging him that he is doing great!

Jean Matheson, Ben's mom

After day 1 of competition at Provincial Games Team PEI Softball sits at 1 win and 2 losses. Reflecting on the day, Jean shared: “It was an amazing day for Team PEI. Ben really enjoyed playing today and was supported by his team and coaches. The friendships that are made through Special Olympics are incredible.”