More Than a Game: Representing Team Canada on the World Stage in Paris 

Lydia Kirupa – Unified partner  Some experiences in life stay with you forever, and representing Team Canada at the 2026 Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup in Paris, France, is one I will never forget. From the lifelong friendships we created and the unforgettable memories we made, to the competition, sightseeing, and cultural experiences, this trip was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Looking back, …

Maria Emery – From Welland with Thanks

Meet Maria Emery from Welland! Maria has been a proud Special Olympics athlete for eight years, participating in athletics and rhythmic gymnastics. She looks forward to spending time with her friends, making new ones, competing, and seeing how much she has improved with each event. For Maria, Special Olympics is a safe space where she can truly be herself without …

Jean-Tae Sterling – Brampton Soccer Star

Meet Jean-Tae Sterling from Brampton, Ontario! A proud Special Olympics athlete for the past two years, Jean-Tae plays soccer with passion and determination. He looks forward to every opportunity to travel, showcase his skills, and make a name for himself in the sport he loves. For Jean-Tae, Special Olympics means proving that anything is possible. One of his best memories …

Krista Bourdon – Multi-Sport Marvel

Meet Krista Bourdon from North Bay! A dedicated athlete for over 20 years, Krista participates in a wide range of sports including 5-pin bowling, athletics, basketball, bocce, floor hockey, snowshoeing, soccer, and softball. For Krista, the Special Olympics is all about meeting new people, staying active, and embracing a healthy lifestyle through sport. When asked what Special Olympics means to …

Ryan Kulikowski

Meet Ryan Kulikowski from Welland-Pelham! He’s been a passionate Special Olympics athlete for an incredible 15 years, competing in 5-pin bowling, 10-pin bowling, athletics, floor hockey, and softball. For Ryan, Special Olympics is all about getting out of the house, meeting teammates and friends, and staying active in the sports he loves. Special Olympics means everything to Ryan—without it, he …

Ciara Joseph: West Nipissing’s Athletic Ace!

For Ciara Joseph, an athlete from West Nipissing, Special Olympics is a great place to feel supported as she expands her range of sports. “I get to try javelin and ball throw. I get recognized for my efforts at Special Olympics.” Ciara became involved in Special Olympics in 2020 and focusses on athletics (track and field) and swimming. She says her …

Jess Horvath: Multi-Sport Maverick!

“When I think of Special Olympics, I think of teamwork and having fun with my friends.” Those are the words of Jess Horvath, an athlete from Brantford. Jess first became involved with Special Olympics eight years ago and has been growing stronger ever since. “My favourite memory is when I deadlifted 405 pounds at a power lifting competition, which is …

David O’Brien: Knocking It Out of the Park!

David O’Brien from Barrie has been an active member of Special Olympics for 37 years and counting, primarily playing in team sports like floor hockey and softball. He also competes in 10-pin bowling, but admits “My best memory is winning gold in floor hockey.” He also wants to share this advice, which is suitable for supporters and teammates alike: “Keep …

Michael Bradding: Dufferin’s Sporting Sensation!

“It’s a great place to meet new people,” says Michael Bradding, a seven-year Special Olympics athlete from Dufferin, Ontario. After so many years of sport and competition, Michael says his best memories are from bocce and swim meets, but he also participates in basketball and soccer. Michael always looks forward to being with friends and learning new sports, so to …