Team PEI 2026 Basketball Shines at First SOC Games
For the first time ever Special Olympics PEI has a team competing at a Special Olympics Canada Games. Just a few short years after competing at a Provincial Games for the first time, Team PEI Basketball is ready for their big moment on the National Stage.
The Special Olympics Canada Games 2026 Medicine Hat started on a high note for Team PEI 2026 Basketball. They played their first divisioning game against Special Olympics Manitoba. Known to be a tough opponent, Team PEI put all their training into practice, ending their Special Olympics Canada Games debut in a tie. Team PEI 2026 Basketball Head Coach, Troy Livingstone, was overcome with emotions following the game.
Nothing else matters. My cup is full...overflowing!
Many of the athletes on Team PEI 2026 Basketball are also first time Special Olympics Canada Games athletes. One such athlete, Braden Gaudet, joined Special Olympics 9 years ago. He says it's changed his life by giving him so many opportunities to meet new people and try new things.
I am loving every moment of the Games so far! I am loving playing Basketball teams from all across Canada. Trading pins has been great too! Our last two games were tough, but that's what we expected here.
Speaking more about their first game against Special Olympics Manitoba, Troy says that was the best game Team PEI has ever players. What stood out most for him was how well the team was communicating, and their ability to get the rebounds.
We came out firing on all cylinders! We were hitting rebounds, running up and down the floor, and running our offence. That first game was everything for me. Anything above that would be a bonus.
As Team PEI heads into Tournament play today, Troy's hope for Team PEI 2026 Basketball is that they just try their best. His hope is that they focus on doing their best, trying hard, and having fun. His message to the team is simply.
We are here. We have already proved ourselves. And as a small Island, it's pretty awesome. We have proved that we belong here, and we will improve each game. Go out there and play hard. Everything's there. And, of course, have fun!
Cheer on Team PEI 2026
Be sure to follow along with all things Team PEI 2026 on our website and social media (Facebook & Instagram - @SpecialOPEI). Go Team PEI Go!