Keegan Waite

How many years have you been involved with Special Olympics?

I have been a Special Olympics athlete for 11 years.  

Why did you first get involved with Special Olympics and how has it changed your life?

I had a friend that played floor hockey and he convinced me to give it a try and I never looked back. It has been amazing getting to meet so many wonderful people and getting to travel to so many beautiful places.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

I've always had issues mentally trying to convince myself I belong in certain situations and I feel like that is a challenge I've worked hard on to overcome.

What other sports do you participate in?

I also participate in Basketball and Floor Ball. I am hopefully to do some alpine skiing in the future.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

Participating in Special Olympics has taught me to appreciate all the small things in life and to separate myself from the negative side of things that come with competitive sports and to enjoy every opportunity that much more.

What are you most looking forward to at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games?

I am most looking forward to achieving personal goals and hopefully being able to attend some of the other sports.

What is your favourite Special Olympics moment?

Definitely the whole experience of competing as a member of Special Olympics Team Canada at the Special Olympics World Summer Games 2023 in Berlin!

What does being a part of Team PEI 2026 mean to you?

Being able to represent your province is always something I've took pride in. The opportunity to still compete at a high level and keep myself in a healthy mindset/spirit means a lot to me.