Marley Gayler: Inspiring Hearts and Chasing Dreams in Special Olympics

Get ready to meet an extraordinary athlete, Marley Gayler, hailing from the vibrant community of Kitchener Waterloo. As a dedicated athlete, Marley has been actively involved in Special Olympics for 14 years.  Marley’s passion for sports knows no bounds as she participates in a diverse range of sports. You can find her showcasing her skills in athletics, basketball, golf, Nordic …

Bryan Goodrich: Celebrating 25 Years of Athletic Excellence in Special Olympics

Meet Bryan Goodrich, a dedicated athlete from Caledon who has been involved in Special Olympics for 25 years! Bryan participates in athletics and swimming and enjoys running, shot put, and swimming. To Bryan, Special Olympics means new opportunities and a chance to showcase his athletic abilities without limitations.   One of Bryan’s best memories with Special Olympics was winning first place …

Chasing Dreams: Gael Shindano’s Remarkable Path in Special Olympics

Meet Gael Shindano, a dedicated Special Olympics athlete from Ottawa, Ontario. He has been involved in Special Olympics for 12 years and participates in a variety of sports, including athletics, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and swimming. Gael loves being active and always looks forward to participating in competitions and meeting new people.  For Gael, Special Olympics is more than just sports. …

Yazmine Wilson-Daponte: A Decade of Excellence in Special Olympics Sports

Yazmine Wilson-Daponte has been an athlete with Special Olympics for 10 years, and during that time, she has participated in numerous sports such as Athletics, Basketball, Bocce, Curling, Soccer, and Swimming. She is an accomplished athlete from the Dufferin community in Orangeville.  What Yazmine loves most about Special Olympics is the opportunity to spend time with her friends while participating …

Mike Newstead: A Catalyst for Inclusion and Inspiration

Meet Mike Newstead, a passionate educator and advocate for inclusive education and Special Olympics. With a career spanning from his roots in Amherstview, Ontario, to his current role at Napanee District Secondary School, Mike has been on a transformative journey that goes beyond traditional teaching. His story is one of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to creating opportunities for individuals …

Unleashing Potential: Franck Koffi’s Journey of Sports and Belonging

Meet Franck Koffi, a dedicated athlete from Ontario who has been involved in Special Olympics for 12 years. Franck participates in athletics and soccer, but his passion lies in playing basketball. For Franck, Special Olympics is not just a place where he can play sports, but also a community where he has made lifelong friends who have in turn become …

Mel and Sharon Lavoie: Dynamic Duo from Kitchener-Waterloo

Meet Mel and Sharon Lavoie, a dynamic duo dedicated to making a positive impact in the world of Special Olympics. Together, Mel and Sharon share a commitment to inclusivity, fostering strong friendships among athletes, and expressing gratitude to the coaches and volunteers who contribute to the success of KW Special Olympics. Their journey reflects a blend of coaching excellence, community …

Meet Blair Bastien: Embracing Sportsmanship and Friendship in Special Olympics

Meet Blair Bastien, a hard-working athlete from Peterborough/Northumberland community who has been involved in Special Olympics for nine years. She participates in several sports including athletics, basketball, bocce, floor hockey, snowshoeing, soccer, and softball.   Blair looks forward to competing and making friends in Special Olympics. She says that the program means everything to her as it allows her to participate …

Jennifer Allen: 21 Years of Special Olympics Excellence in Guelph Wellington

Meet Jennifer Allen, a superstar athlete from Guelph Wellington who has been involved with Special Olympics for an impressive 21 years! Jennifer participates in a variety of sports including 10-Pin Bowling, Athletics, Basketball, Floor Hockey, and Softball.   To Jennifer, Special Olympics means being able to compete in sports to the best of her ability without being judged. Her best memory …

Meet Dashawn Williams: A Rising Star in Brampton’s Special Olympics Community

Meet Dashawn Williams, a passionate athlete from Brampton who has been involved with Special Olympics for four years. Dashawn participates in Athletics, Basketball, and Soccer. His favourite thing about Special Olympics is seeing his friends and representing his country in his favourite sports.   His best Special Olympics memory was being announced to Team Canada and being presented at the Gala, …