This month we’re handing things over to Corina, a teacher from Waterloo Region District School Board, to share her experience with Special Olympics—
For about 10 years, I have had the privilege of volunteering with Special Olympics. This journey has filled my life with pure joy, inspiration, and the spirit of true sportsmanship. I began by coaching swimming and later expanded my involvement to track and field. I even helped with the launching of our KW (Kitchener-Waterloo) Special Olympics curling team. Each role has allowed me to witness firsthand how Special Olympics transforms lives through the power of athletic competition and community support.
When I was hired as an educator at my school, I knew I needed to bring the energy and inclusivity of Special Olympics into our classroom. My passion for this incredible organization inspired me to integrate its values into our school culture. I wanted my students to experience not only the thrill of competition but also the importance of kindness, teamwork, and respect for one another.
This vision came to life when our class hosted our first intermediate Special Olympics event. We invited students from other schools to join us for a bocce tournament, a day filled with laughter, determination, and unforgettable moments. The event was magical as passionate volunteers, dedicated athletes, and supportive educators came together to create an environment where every participant felt valued and empowered. One moment that still resonates with me is when I realized, “I’ve never felt as much joy and happiness as I do when I'm surrounded by these incredibly passionate people.” Their energy and care remind me why I am so committed to this work.
The impact of this event was deeply felt by our students as well. One grade eight student shared, “It was a lot of fun, and it meant a lot to me because people who can’t experience sports outside of school got to experience it in a different and fun way for them.” Another grade eight student reflected, “It was special for me because I have friends in the class who I help out with, and I feel like I would like to do it again and help out with the Special Olympics more.”
One student played bocce for the first time, saying “It was cool when I played bocce ball. It was my first time playing it. I learned to go slower so that I could get closer to the ball.” For a grade seven student, the event sparked a newfound love for sports: “I liked the sports. It was a fun day. I hope I get to play more sports.” Another student summed it up simply, “It was great, it was fun. Bocce ball was fun.”
Special Olympics holds a special place in my heart because it provides lifelong opportunities for growth and inclusion. The organization not only fosters athletic excellence but also bridges communities and promotes accessibility for all ages and abilities. Our school's recent initiative, a Unified basketball club, is just one example of how we are working to create a more inclusive environment for everyone.
I am deeply grateful for the continuous inspiration that Special Olympics brings to my life and the lives of those around me. As we look to the future, I am excited to expand our programs and further celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers. Together, we are building a community where joy, inclusion, and mutual respect lead the way.