My name is Jonathon Sibley. I’m 24 years old and an athlete of Special Olympics Ontario, competing with the St. Thomas chapter. Special Olympics means a lot to me because I feel like I belong. I also have the opportunity to compete and succeed in many different sports including competitive swimming, my sport of choice. I’ve made a lot of …
In 1989, I took my first step into the vibrant world of Special Olympics Chatham-Kent as a volunteer. Little did I know that this initial experience would ignite a lifelong journey of passion and dedication. From those early days, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of sports in the lives of athletes with intellectual disabilities. In 2004 I returned to …
In early June, Bâton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar locations in Ottawa and Oakville hosted fundraising lunches in support of local Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) communities. The fundraising lunches are made possible through meals donated by the local Bâton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar and its suppliers. These meals are provided to attendees free of charge while encouraging customers to donate in support of …
The Central Simcoe County area of Central Ontario District is pleased to see the return of a program launched in 2023: mountain biking! In partnership with Hardwood Ski & Bike in Oro-Medonte, athletes join together for a weekly program led by an accredited instructor and supported by registered Special Olympics volunteers. Expanded to ten weeks for 2024, the group will …
Ezekiel’s Essay: I went to Calgary for the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games with Team Ontario athletes from Monday, February 26th to Friday, March 1st, 2024 to compete in Speed Skating. We got to Calgary by travelling on the West Jet airplane #651. We stayed at the athletes’ village, Sheraton Suites Hotel. My roommates were Kai Freeland and Stephen Graham …
My involvement with Special Olympics began in the 11th grade. I volunteered to convene the ringette/floor hockey tournament. Since that event I have convened the soccer and bocce ball tournaments. I have been a Unified player with my school’s teams for basketball, bocce ball twice and floorball. The turning point came when I convened the Special Olympics Soccer tournament this …
Nestled in Williamstown, Ontario, Char-Lan High School is a small rural institution with a big heart for inclusivity and sportsmanship. Despite its modest size, the school has made a significant impact by actively participating in Special Olympics events. The school took pride in hosting the local Special Olympics Ontario soccer tournament for two consecutive years. The Link Crew class and …
I’m Tracey Thomas, and together with my husband Jeff and daughters Sarah and Rebecca, we’ve been on a journey that has defied our expectations, challenged our preconceptions, and filled our lives with profound joy. Our encounter with Special Olympics began when Sarah, our youngest, was transitioning out of therapy programs at Grandview Children’s Centre. Seeking new opportunities for her, we …
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 …
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 …
