Hi! I’m Abbi, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through my teacher, who is now my coach, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for six years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet so many great friends. I love to play lots of different sports, and I am very competitive. I always try my best and strive for the “W”!

One of my proudest moments was my soccer team getting to go to Nationals.

I work at Pinetree Catering.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me super proud of myself and my teammates. I’m excited to play against other great athletes and teams.

My advice? Try your best and try new things.

Hi! I’m Adam, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a family friend introduced us to Special Olympics — and I’ve now been part of the program for 18 years.

Special Olympics gives me the chance to stay active in sports and be part of a team. One of my proudest moments was winning Gold at Provincials.

I’m proud to play for Team Ontario and represent my community at Nationals.

My advice? Have fun — and do your best!

Hi! I’m Aidan, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I first learned about Special Olympics when a pamphlet came home from school, and I’ve been involved for 12 years.

Special Olympics keeps me fit, active, and connected with friends. One of my favourite highlights was winning gold.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel very proud.

My advice? If you have fun and do your best, good things can happen.

Hi! I’m Alex, and I coach Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved when my son Justin was 10 years old and there were limited opportunities — that’s how our Special Olympics journey began.

For 15 years, Special Olympics has helped shape my life. It has made me a better person and taught me perseverance. One of my proudest moments was seeing my son make it to the 2017 Provincial Games.

I work for the City of Vaughan as a Senior… and I stay active in my community by participating in York South Council meetings.

My advice? Be proud to be a Team Ontario Squad member — you’ve earned it!

Hi! I’m Alexa, and I coach Swimming for Team Ontario. I was approached by a developmental support worker at a summer camp who knew I swam and thought I would be a perfect fit to join the club. I came to practice and loved it — and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for five years.

Special Olympics has taught me lessons about patience and determination. I can show up to practice and immediately be in a good mood with a smile on my face. My athletes are the reason I come back every week.

One of my proudest moments is seeing my athletes proud of themselves after their races.

I work as an Occupational Therapist at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Being part of Team Ontario is an honour. I’m excited to learn and grow as a coach.

My advice? Have fun and embrace every opportunity presented to you!

Hi! I’m Alex, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. My dad signed me up, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for seven years.

Special Olympics gives me a chance to compete in competitions.

One of my proudest moments has been getting very strong.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very happy.

My advice? Get very strong!

Hi! I’m Alisha, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved after being told about the program from a worker, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has made me feel included. It has allowed me to travel and make new friends.

One of my biggest sport achievements was representing Team Canada for alpine skiing in 2021. I previously participated in the 2020 National Winter Games for alpine skiing and qualified for the 2021 Winter World Games in Kazan, Russia, but did not attend due to COVID and the war.

I work at Care Partners, a nursing agency, as an administrative assistant, and I’m active as a spokesperson and through fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means my hard work has paid off. It makes me proud to represent my province in a sport I absolutely love — soccer.

My advice? Train and work hard. Enjoy the journey and have fun along the way.

Hi! I’m Allison, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. I first got involved because I kept saying I wanted to do 10-pin bowling, and someone suggested I try Special Olympics — then other activities came along.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet people and connect with others.

One of my proudest moments was winning my bowling trophy. I am also proud of my medals for rhythmic gymnastics.

I attend fundraisers in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means I get to travel and meet new people and get a chance to go to Worlds.

My advice? Don’t get distracted and don’t overthink — have fun!

Hi! I’m Allyson, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first joined a Special Olympics swimming program in Ottawa, and I’ve now been involved for 32 years.

Special Olympics has introduced me to so many incredible athletes and volunteers. One of my proudest achievements was winning gold in Bocce at the National Games in Sudbury in 1998.

I’ve worked at Metro bagging groceries and have served as an Athlete Representative for Arnprior.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel successful, proud, and very excited.

My advice? Know what you can control — and work hard at that.

Hi! I’m Amber, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved in the year 2000 when my friend Darlene encouraged me to try Special Olympics — and I’ve now been part of it for 25 years.

Special Olympics gave me the chance to experience sports in a way I never did as a child. I’ve competed at National Games before in London, Ontario in Track and Field.

I work as a house cleaner with Community Living and attend fundraisers at Sobeys and Tim Hortons.

Being part of Team Ontario means being accepted for who I am.

My advice? Just have fun — laugh, learn, and enjoy your time.

Hi! I’m Amber, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I started in high school around 2010, and I’ve now been involved for 15 years.

Special Olympics has been part of my life through watching it on TV and being inspired by my family. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal at Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me because I’ve worked hard to get here.

My advice? Just have fun and enjoy everything you do in your sport.

Hi! I’m Amiera, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My mom met a lady in Goderich who invited me to swim with the Special Olympics swimmers there when I was 4 years old, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped grow my swim family and introduced me to so many new friends.

One of my proudest moments was at my very first Special Olympics swim meet. I swam the 100 IM against a single male swimmer. I was 9 years old and very little, and he was 36 and very big. I was scared, but I swam my best race and beat him. The entire crowd cheered, he shook my hand and told me he was proud of me — and I was proud of me too.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’m very proud to represent my province and give my best effort. I’m excited to share this Team Ontario experience with my favorite coach — my mom.

I’m new to my current Special Olympics community but look forward to joining fundraising activities and leadership training.

My advice? Practice hard, try your best, and have fun!

Hi! I’m Andre, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a co-worker at my dad’s old workplace, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 19 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life — yes.

One of my proudest moments was deadlifting 501 pounds at the World Games in Abu Dhabi.

I have participated in 3 National Games — London, Ontario (2010), Vancouver, BC (2014), and Antigonish, NS (2018) — all in powerlifting. I have also competed at 2 World Games — Los Angeles, CA and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates — in powerlifting.

I stay active by participating in all six sports that I’m involved in.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot.

My advice? Stay committed to the sports that you love to do.

Hi! I’m Andrew, and I coach Basketball for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a friend and jumped in to help with basketball — and it’s been nothing but positive for me ever since.

One of my proudest moments was winning Provincials, and being part of Team Ontario (and heading to Medicine Hat) is truly an honour.

I work as a Data Scientist, and I stay active in my Special Olympics community through coaching.

My advice? Growth through consistency — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Andrew, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I was one of the first participants in London’s Special Olympics program, and I’ve now been involved for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me build friendships and grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was going to the Provincial Games in the summer of 2025, where I brought home three gold medals.

Being part of Team Ontario brings me excitement, and I’m very proud to represent my community.

I stay active by participating in the bowl-a-thon each year and supporting events whenever I can.

My advice? Do your best and try hard.

Hi! I’m Andrew, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved with Special Olympics when a friend from school invited me to watch a floorball game — and I’ve been part of the community ever since.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends and given me opportunities to grow. One of my biggest achievements was winning Gold at the 2025 Provincial Games in Soccer. Being selected for Team Ontario shows me that the hard work is paying off.

I work at Pur & Simple and Wildfire Catering by Andrew, and I stay involved by peer coaching and mentoring new athletes.

My advice? Enjoy the moment!

Hi! I’m Andria, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved through my coaches and have now been part of Special Olympics for two years.

Special Olympics has helped me get exercise.

One of my proudest moments is my family and friends.

I stay active through friendship.

Being part of Team Ontario means “awesome sauce.”

My advice? Leadership.

Hi! I’m Angelina, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! My mom found the Halton Hills Special Olympics program for me, and I’ve now been involved for 12 years.

I love my friends and teammates at Special Olympics — they mean so much to me. One of my biggest achievements was competing at the 2025 Canada Games in swimming.

I’m part of four Halton Hills teams and help out whenever I can.

I’m very excited to attend Nationals with Team Ontario.

My advice? Have fun and cheer on your teammates!

Hi! I’m Arien, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved in high school and have now been part of Special Olympics for two years.

Special Olympics has helped me learn to trust and enjoy sports.

One of my proudest moments was scoring the last goal to qualify for Nationals.

I work as a dishwasher at East Side Mario’s, and I’m involved with Cadets.

Being part of Team Ontario is a promise I made with a close friend — that we would make it all the way to Worlds.

My advice? Have fun and try your best.

Hi! I’m Ashley, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I always try hard to be my best, whether I’m bowling or competing in track events.

Being part of Team Ontario means so much to me. I haven’t always had the chance to compete at this level, so I’m excited to represent my community at Nationals.

My advice? Try your best, meet new people, and enjoy the experience!

Hi! I’m Ashley, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a family friend started Special Olympics swimming, and I’ve now been part of the program for 12 years.

Special Olympics has greatly impacted my life and helped me grow in confidence. One of my proudest moments was going to the Special Olympics National Games.

I work at a daycare as a supply educator and helper.

Being part of Team Ontario means the world to me — I get to represent Ontario and show what I can do.

My advice? You can do anything if you put your mind to it.

Hi! I’m Austin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I started my Special Olympics journey 16 years ago with Alpine Skiing, and since then I’ve built lifelong friendships and had the chance to travel for competitions.

One of my proudest moments was competing at the 2018 National Summer Games in Antigonish, Nova Scotia for swimming.

Being part of Team Ontario means the chance to meet and compete with athletes from across the country.

My advice? A good warm-up makes a good competition!

Hi! I’m Austin, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my teacher, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 18 years.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to be with my friends and meet new people. One of my proudest achievements has been competing in Basketball, including traveling to Nova Scotia for Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new athletes and coaches and representing my community.

My advice? Just have fun and enjoy your time.

Hi! I’m Beth, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved in swimming and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends.

One of my proudest moments was finishing my 200 Backstroke in 1st place at the Spring Games in Kitchener-Waterloo.

I stay active in my community through Curling, Figure Skating, Swimming, and Dragon Boat.

Being part of Team Ontario means I qualified to be on the Team Ontario Training Squad in Medicine Hat.

My advice? Cheer on your teammates.

Hi! I’m Bianca, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved because my family was already part of Special Olympics, and I’ve now been involved for three years.

Special Olympics has had a positive impact on my life and helped me grow in sport. One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — it’s a big opportunity and something I’m really proud of.

My advice? Be friendly and support your teammates.

Hi! I’m Bill, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Tenpin. I first got involved by watching athletes in my community and have now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to help athletes attend Provincial, National, and World Games.

One of my proudest moments was preparing a local athlete to attend World Games.

Being part of Team Ontario provides an opportunity to help athletes achieve success.

My advice? Focus on your tasks to get better and have fun with it.

Hi! I’m Blair, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through an old friend, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 13 years.

Special Olympics has had a full impact on my life. One of my proudest moments was competing in my first World Games in 2023 and winning silver. I’ve also attended Nationals twice before.

Being part of Team Ontario means EVERYTHING to me — it means I’ve worked hard and achieved something truly special.

I stay active by competing in other sports within my community.

My advice? Just be yourself. Train hard and believe in what you can do.

Hi! I’m Brad, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through 10-pin bowling and then expanded into other sports over the past 10 years.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to grow, compete, and be part of an amazing team. One of my biggest achievements was qualifying for Nationals — and I’ve previously attended National Games in 2018 for Softball.

I work in web design for Gooder Marketing.

Being part of Team Ontario is an honour and a privilege.

My advice? Be a team player — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Bradley, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I started in 5-pin bowling and have now been involved in Special Olympics for 14 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet lots of good people and build friendships. One of my proudest moments was being named Athlete of the Year for 2022–2023.

Being part of Team Ontario is an honour and gives me confidence.

I also participate in community car washes and BBQ fundraisers.

Hi! I’m Brandon, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a family friend told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the program for 18 years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made many friends and learned important skills. One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals for Basketball in the past and continuing to grow in sport.

I work at a gym in Georgetown where I help clean and support members. I also help with bake sales and puck toss fundraisers.

I’m very excited to attend Nationals and represent Team Ontario.

My advice? Work hard, train hard, eat healthy — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Breanne, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I started with Special Olympics 10 years ago, and it has had such a positive impact on my life.

One of my proudest moments was winning two gold medals at the Provincial Games in Waterloo. I worked really hard to get there, and qualifying for Nationals means so much to me.

I work as a Program Coordinator with the Council, and I participate in our flower fundraiser every year to stay active in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario is something I’m incredibly proud of.

My advice? Just have fun with everything you get to do as an athlete!

Hi! I’m Bree, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My family introduced me to Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 20 years.

I’ve met many new friends, attended three Provincial Games, and gained more confidence.

One of my proudest moments was the 2024 Provincials, where I set a personal best on my butterfly.

I work at Shoppers Drug Mart, where I do merchandising and cash.

I have participated in Torch Runs and represented Special Olympics at fundraising events.

Being part of Team Ontario means making my first Nationals — a dream come true!

My advice? Have fun. Try your best!

Hi! I’m Brenda, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Tenpin. I first got involved by starting a bowling program at my bowling center, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 18 years.

Special Olympics has brought much joy through helping the athletes.

One of my proudest moments is really enjoying working with the athletes on a regular basis.

I have served as Secretary for the past 14 years and help with many fundraising initiatives.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very proud to be part of such an amazing organization. I love creating memories and seeing the athletes excel in their chosen sport.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Brittany, and I coach Swimming for Team Ontario. I first worked with Special Olympians as a program assistant for figure skating. Later, while working at our local pool as a lifeguard, I heard a swim team was being started and knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.

Special Olympics has added so much to my life. Working with athletes and other coaches has become a highlight of my week. The joy and sense of community within this organization is truly special.

One of my proudest moments was attending Provincial Games in Waterloo as an assistant coach and being part of the achievements and joy of all team members.

I work at Collingwood General & Marine Hospital as a nurse and am active as a Head Coach, Community Coordinator, and member of the fundraising committee.

Being part of Team Ontario is a great honor.

My advice?

Be proud of your accomplishments so far — you've worked hard. Enjoy training, try your best, and enjoy every moment of the Games.

Hi! I’m Britney, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through swimming and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has made me a better athlete.

One of my proudest moments was going to Vancouver.

I have participated in Floor Hockey.

Being part of Team Ontario means having fun and meeting new friends.

My advice? Enjoy what you are doing.

Hi! I’m Brittney, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Athletics. I first got involved when a friend asked me to join the swimming team, knowing I used to compete, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

One of my proudest moments was being chosen to represent my community and province as a coach for the National Games.

I stay active by coaching two sports and volunteering at events along with playing my own sports throughout the year.

Being part of Team Ontario means being able to watch my athletes compete at this level makes me so proud.

My advice? Believe in yourself and work hard. Have confidence in your skills and celebrate your efforts and your teammates as well.

Hi! I’m Brody, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved by starting in school and have now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to travel and meet people.

One of my proudest moments was getting a bronze in Abu Dhabi and meeting Avril Lavigne. I have participated in bowling at the PEI Games and Abu Dhabi.

Being part of Team Ontario means I have worked hard in training.

My advice? Try your best and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Brook, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a friend invited me, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for five years.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to try new things and grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was playing at Provincials — and now Nationals!

I work at Maple Foods gathering eggs and also as an Independent Grocery clerk. I stay involved through fundraising and helping teammates.

Being part of Team Ontario means getting to try something new and have fun.

My advice? Remember we’re here to have fun and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Brooklyn, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved after a family friend told us about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for eight years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new people and be part of something special. One of my proudest moments was winning three gold medals and one silver at Provincials.

I stay active in my community by helping make Special Olympics donuts and supporting local events.

I’m excited and ready to have fun at Nationals!

My advice? Do your best and have fun!

Hi! I’m Calley, and I coach Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved because my mom is a Special Olympics swim coach — and I’ve now been part of the community for 11 years.

Special Olympics has introduced me to so many amazing people and experiences. One of my proudest moments was cheering on and watching my teammates succeed — being part of a team means everything to me.

I’m also an assistant swim coach for the York South program, which allows me to give back.

I’m honoured to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? All you can do is try your best — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Candace-Rose, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Powerlifting. I first got involved through my college program at Canadore College for Strength and Sports Conditioning, where volunteer opportunities allowed me to work with the North Bay Special Olympics team. I had also helped in the life skills program in high school, and I have loved every moment of being a Special Olympics coach ever since.

Special Olympics has given me the opportunity to build my leadership and communication skills, and I’ve made friendships in my home community that will last a lifetime.

One of my proudest moments was running my first unified powerlifting meet, where my Special Olympics athletes cheered everyone on and lifted some of the biggest weights at the meet. My personal biggest achievement as an athlete was benching 60 kg in competition.

I work as a Primary Care Paramedic at the City of Toronto and stay active through coaching and volunteering at events.

Being part of Team Ontario means reaching a level of respect and professionalism as a coach. It also means supporting familiar athletes and meeting new ones, and being part of another team.

My advice? Pick the weight up, put it down, don’t get hurt.

Hi! I’m Carly, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved because a friend was involved in bowling and encouraged me to join.

Special Olympics has allowed me to travel to new places and build friendships. I’ve competed at Nationals before in PEI in 2018 for 5-pin bowling.

One of my proudest achievements was winning the Principal’s Award in Grade 8 for outstanding involvement.

I help with promotional evenings and building partnerships in my community.

Being selected for Team Ontario is a huge honour.

My advice? Enjoy yourself — don’t sweat the small stuff — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Carole, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Soccer! I first got involved through a friend and have now been part of Special Olympics for 30 years.

Special Olympics has given my daughter a safe and inclusive environment to grow and thrive. There isn’t just one proud moment — watching our athletes achieve their goals has been the most meaningful experience.

I serve as Treasurer for our local council and help organize community initiatives.

Being part of Team Ontario fills me with pride for our athletes.

My advice? Represent and promote Team Ontario with pride and positivity.

Hi! I’m Carolyn, and I’m proud to be part of Team Ontario in Golf! I first got involved when my son was part of Community Living and they suggested Special Olympics — and it’s been part of my life for 15 years.

Special Olympics has given me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone and be part of something truly meaningful. One of my proudest moments was when my son was chosen for bowling at Nationals in 2014.

I stay active by fundraising and serving on planning committees in my community.

I’m so proud to be attending Nationals with my golfer this year.

My advice? Congratulations on making Team Ontario — enjoy every moment of the experience!

Hi! I’m Catherine, and I coach Bocce for Team Ontario! I got involved by offering my professional services, and it grew into 19 years with Special Olympics.

Special Olympics has broadened my life in meaningful ways. One of my proudest memories was at Provincials last year, watching athletes succeed through hard work.

I’ve coached many sports over the years and stay deeply involved in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of something greater than yourself.

My advice? There’s a long time between selection and competition — stay focused and enjoy the journey.

Hi! I’m Cederique, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved through high school programming, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me gain confidence and grow as a person. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal at Provincials in Brantford.

Being part of Team Ontario means the world to me — I get to explore new places and represent my community.

My advice? Believe in yourself and you will achieve anything.

Hi! I’m Chad, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved by starting to coach basketball and bowling, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 26 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet and connect with a great group of individuals from across the province.

One of my proudest moments was being asked to join Team Ontario.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’ll be able to join a great team and meet and make friends from all across Canada.

My advice? Live by and follow the Special Olympics Oath and motto.

Hi! I’m Chante, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through friends and have now been part of Special Olympics for three years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends.

One of my proudest moments was making the Unified MLS soccer team for Toronto FC.

I am active in my community as a peer coach.

Being part of Team Ontario means being proud to represent your province.

My advice? Never give up on your dreams.

Hi! I’m Chantelle, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved through swimming, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends. One of my proudest achievements was making it to the Provincial Games and now going to National Games for the first time. At the 2024 Provincial Games, I won 3 gold medals and 1 silver medal.

I work at The Frosted Cupcake, where I do buttercream, prepare dry ingredients, and serve customers.

I also play golf, bocce, and swimming in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me so excited to meet new people and compete in swimming!

My advice? You can do it if you put your mind to it!

Hi! I’m Cheyenne, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved with Special Olympics by joining my local program, and I’ve now been part of it for two years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life by teaching me teamwork and helping me grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was achieving my goal of qualifying for Team Ontario.

Being selected for Team Ontario means I’ve reached something I worked hard for — and I’m excited to represent my province.

My advice? Work as a team, listen to everyone’s opinions, and support one another.

Hi! I’m Chris, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I got involved through our City Councillor after volunteering as an election scrutineer — he asked why I wasn’t in Special Olympics… and a few sports later, here I am headed to Nationals!

Special Olympics has been amazing for me, especially after moving to Timmins four years ago — it helped me meet so many people in the community, from athletes to coaches and trainers, and honestly, without it I think things would have been pretty lonely.

One of my proudest moments was at Provincials, where I won two gold medals and a bronze across three athletics competitions — and coming home to Timmins with gold medals was such a powerful feeling (even making the front page of the local newspaper!).

Being part of Team Ontario and going to Medicine Hat feels like the next logical step toward an even bigger goal — and I’m going to do my best.

My advice? Practice, stay active, and do your best — all members are already winners!

Hi! I’m Christopher, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my teacher at school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 34 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to travel, meet new people, and compete internationally. I’ve won gold medals for Canada in Germany and Austria and have competed in Sudbury (Athletics), Prince Albert (Swimming), and Quebec.

I work as a dishwasher at Waldo-on-King and help with Torch Run events in London and Strathroy, as well as Polar Plunges.

Representing Ontario means I want to win gold for myself and my community.

My advice? Practice — I swim three times a week!

Hi! I’m Christina, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved through AHCL in Sundridge and have now been part of Special Olympics for 19 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to visit new places and make new friends. One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals for the second time.

Being part of Team Ontario means being with other Ontario teammates and representing together.

My advice? Have fun, do your best, and believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Claire, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first started in soccer, track and field, and other sports before focusing on bocce.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve participated in many sports and learned so much along the way. One of my proudest achievements was winning a silver medal in bocce.

I’m also active in my community through Best Buddies and as a member of my local programs.

I’m excited to represent Ontario at Nationals.

My advice? Be kind to others, be friendly, and listen to your coaches.

Hi! I’m Clarista, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario. I got involved through word of mouth, and Special Olympics has helped me with my disability.

One of my proudest moments is when I hit the ball and ran home — that feeling stays with me.

Going to Nationals again with my softball team means a lot to me… and I’m ready to have fun in Medicine Hat!

My advice? Don’t give up on your dreams. Don’t be afraid to try something new.

Hi! I’m Cody, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved because my parents were coaches, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 18 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life in so many positive ways. My proudest moment is finally making it to Nationals with my teammates.

I work as a fashion associate at Walmart and stay active by helping with fundraisers in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — especially sharing the experience with my teammates.

My advice? I hope all of us are judged by our effort and heart — not anything else.

Hi! I’m Connor, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through Community Living Burlington and have now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends.

One of my proudest moments was winning a silver medal at Worlds.

I stay active in my community through fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me excited.

My advice? We will have fun.

Hi! I’m Damian (you can call me Derf Jr), and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario. My family has played for over 25 years, and I grew up playing softball.

Special Olympics has impacted my life by giving me hope that there is a safe place.

My proudest moment was winning all 4 provincial games, and being part of Team Ontario makes me happy — I’m proud to be part of a team.

My advice? Don’t be discouraged — have fun and play hard.

Hi! I’m Dan, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through coaching softball in Aurora, and I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me develop patience and empathy. One of my proudest moments was attending National Games for the first time.

I stay involved in my community through Community Council and enjoy giving back whenever I can.

I’m extremely excited to represent Team Ontario.

My advice? Enjoy the moment.

Hi! I’m Daniel, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved after watching Special Olympics Games on TV — and I knew I wanted to be part of it. I’ve now been involved for 26 years.

Special Olympics has given me opportunities to travel and compete. One of my proudest moments was competing at the 2019 National Games in Antigonish, Nova Scotia.

I work at Sobeys looking after the front of the store with buggies and customer support.

Being chosen for Team Ontario makes me proud and shows that my hard work has paid off.

My advice? Train hard, have fun, and try to meet new friends.

Hi! I’m Danny, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Powerlifting. I first got involved when I was asked to start the powerlifting program in Ottawa, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for seven years.

It has been an amazingly rewarding experience to support these athletes with something they love.

One of my proudest moments has been seeing my athletes get their medals.

I work in National Defence in drone procurement and engineering services contracting, and I volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society as Event Director for Relay for Life.

Being part of Team Ontario means the experience grows exponentially with the complexity of the Games — Nationals will be a new experience.

My advice? Continue to do your best!

Hi! I’m Dante, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through basketball and have now been part of Special Olympics for six years.

When asked how Special Olympics has impacted my life — no.

One of my proudest moments was competing at Provincials.

I work as a cook.

I’m not active in other ways within my Special Olympics community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot.

My advice? Work hard and learn from your losses.

(Continuing next unique athlete after duplicates in sheet)

28 Years Old

Hi! I’m Darby, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! One of my biggest achievements was being named “Most Inspirational Runner” for track and field in high school.

Being selected for Team Ontario means the absolute world to me — it’s a dream come true. I’m excited to represent my community and compete at Nationals.

My advice? Believe in yourself, and if you want something badly enough, work hard for it.

Hi! I’m Dave, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when my men’s curling team was asked to compete against a Special Olympics team to get them ready for competitions. That worked out well, and I was invited to coach. I was then invited to coach golf.

Special Olympics has made me cognizant of the importance of speaking with athletes and listening to athletes. This has carried over to other areas of my life.

One of my proudest moments was having an athlete with autism put his arm around me while we were curling. His mother cried — and so did I.

I stay active through fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means I can help the athlete I coach represent his Tyendinaga Mohawk community in Red Deer.

My advice?

Always be an ambassador for Special Olympics. People will listen to an athlete more than they will listen to a coach.

Hi! I’m Deb, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Swimming. My uncle was involved in Special Olympics, and as a young person I would tag along. I’ve now been involved for 15 years.

I receive so much joy from these hard-working athletes — they inspire me.

One of my proudest moments was getting accepted to coach for Nationals.

I work with the Ministry of Natural Resources as Director of Forest Operations, and I coach swimming with our community club. I also participate in the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario is a very proud moment.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Devin, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Special Olympics through floor hockey, and I’ve been competing for four years now.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to grow, compete, and be part of a team. One of my biggest achievements was winning Special Olympics Softball Provincials.

I’ve always wanted to represent Team Ontario like my role models, and I’m excited for the opportunity.

My advice? Never give up — and remember all the people who are cheering you on!

Hi! I’m Dianne, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Swimming. I first got involved while lifeguarding a swim meet, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 30 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet so many friends and learn so much.

One of my proudest moments has been watching the athlete grow in the sport.

Being part of Team Ontario is very special.

My advice? Enjoy your time.

Hi! I’m Donald, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through baseball and have now been part of Special Olympics for seven years.

Special Olympics brought me to sports.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario is great — I’m happy Brampton called me up to play for them.

My advice? Go with the flow.

Hi! I’m Donald, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved when a teacher showed me how to bowl in high school, and I’ve stuck with it ever since. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 25 years.

Special Olympics has been pretty good over the years. I’ve met a lot of different people at different events.

One of my proudest moments was bowling at Worlds in Connecticut when I was younger — it was a fun experience. I have participated at both National and World Games for tenpin bowling.

I stay active by attending events in the community.

Being part of Team Ontario is pretty cool — I made it on the team.

My advice? Do not ever quit.

Hi! I’m Dylan, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I got involved in Special Olympics by asking around and found out about it through Parry Bird, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics has opened my eyes to new opportunities and new people through different sports.

One of my biggest sport achievements was making it to the World Games. I have played at World Games and National Games in soccer.

I work at the MNR as a cleaner and stay active by working out and helping with fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot because I can play the sport I love.

My advice? Never give up on your goals and have a positive attitude.

Hi! I’m Dylan, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved in high school and have now been part of Special Olympics for eight years.

Special Olympics has helped me become a team leader and support my teammates and others.

One of my proudest moments was making a AAA baseball team and making Nationals for golf.

Being part of Team Ontario is a privilege — it’s my first time going to Nationals.

My advice? Enjoy the moment of being part of Team Ontario.

Hi! I’m Emily, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. I first got involved after being referred by a friend, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 13 years.

Special Olympics has given me more diversity in my life. One of my proudest moments was finally winning 1st place at Provincials.

I’ve previously participated at the 2018 National Games in Nova Scotia.

I volunteer at a seniors active learning centre and also work as a paid artistic gymnastics assistant coach. I’ve also participated in parades within my Special Olympics community.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very proud of myself.

My advice? If you feel nervous, that’s completely normal.

Hi! I’m Emily, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My mom found out about Special Olympics when I was a baby, and I’ve now been part of it for 28 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make friends and travel.

One of my proudest moments was being inducted into the Halton Hills Sports Hall of Fame.

I have participated in Rhythmic Gymnastics and Swimming at Nationals and Worlds.

I volunteer at my church and help with soup kitchen and community dinners. I also take part in the Torch Run.

Being part of Team Ontario feels amazing and I am grateful.

My advice? Have fun, make best friends, and just be you.

Hi! I’m Emily, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. I first got involved when my parents registered me after speaking with someone involved with Special Olympics.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet new people and travel.

One of my proudest moments was making the National Team for Rhythmic Gymnastics and traveling on the airplane with my friends.

I’ve competed at Nationals in Antigonish for Rhythmic Gymnastics.

I work at The Wise Owl Café, where I serve customers, and I’ve attended fundraisers with my team.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am a good teammate.

My advice? Leave the world a better place.

Hi! I’m Emma, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first found Special Olympics through a website, and I’ve now been involved for four years.

Special Olympics has been a joy in my life. Making it to the National Games is a highlight for me, and it means a lot — especially knowing how proud my family is.

I stay active by participating as an athlete and helping with fundraising events like Tim Hortons and Torch Runs.

My advice? Try hard, and you’ll get to do exciting events!

Hi! I’m Eric, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I actually started out as a volunteer before becoming an athlete, and I’ve now been involved in Special Olympics for 22 years.

Special Olympics has had a positive impact on my life and helped me grow as a person. One of my proudest moments has been being able to play my sports again after an injury.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new people and playing against new teams during Nationals.

My advice? Do your best and have fun with the sports you love.

Hi! I’m Erin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through track and field Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has been about track and field, soccer, baseball, bocce, bowling, swimming, and friends.

One of my proudest moments was basketball.

I go to fundraisers in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario is great.

My advice? Making friends easier.

Hi! I’m Ewen, and I play Soccer for Team Ontario at the 2026 National Games! My path with Special Olympics started through my high school — my parents realized there were opportunities to compete outside of school too, and I found my local community and joined multiple sports.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to fall in love with sports I’d never tried before, and I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world representing my country. Some of my proudest moments came in speedskating: winning gold in the 1500m at the Special Olympics Winter World Games in Italy, and being chosen as flag bearer, leading Team Canada into the opening ceremonies.

I work at The Watering Can in Vineland, Ontario, in the kitchen of the pastry market, and I stay active in my community by supporting fundraising and social events, judging a talent show for artists with intellectual disabilities, and serving on the Athletes Leadership Council.

This is my first Summer Nationals, and after years of competing in winter sports, I can’t wait to represent Ontario in soccer and make my province proud.

My advice? Enjoy the experience — take time to soak in every part of the Games, because those memories stay with you forever.

Hi! I’m Francis, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my community, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends and grow through sport. One of my biggest achievements was playing at the Provincial level.

Being part of Team Ontario and attending Nationals is something I’m proud of.

My advice? Be active — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Fraser, and I coach Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved by volunteering as a skills development coach, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for seven years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life in many positive ways and has introduced me to an incredible community. One of my proudest moments has been spending time with athletes and helping them grow.

Being part of Team Ontario is both an honour and a privilege.

My advice? Be proud of the fact that you’ve been selected — you’ve earned it.

Hi! I’m Fred, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my mom and stepdad, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 27 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life positively in so many ways. One of my proudest moments was winning silver at Nationals in Nova Scotia for Softball.

I work as a school custodian and volunteer firefighter and stay active through fundraising in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot.

My advice? Be friendly and support one another.

Hi! I’m Gael, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved by swimming with my Ottawa community and have now been part of Special Olympics for 16 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to socialize and be involved in various activities and sports.

One of my proudest moments includes various participation and medals during Provincials, Nationals, and Canada events. I have participated at the National Games in Antigonish for swimming.

Being part of Team Ontario means loving my participation.

My advice? Enjoy your time here and do your best.

Hi! I’m Garreth, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Athletics! I began coaching with the Brantford Special Olympics program five years ago and have been passionate about it ever since.

Special Olympics has had a tremendous impact on my life. One of my proudest moments in sport was coaching athletes and seeing them reach their goals.

Being part of Team Ontario and attending Nationals means continuing to support athletes at the highest level.

I stay active in my community by being involved in fundraising and local initiatives.

My advice? Keep working hard — your dedication matters.

Hi! I’m Gino, and I coach Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved as a translator while helping someone sign up — and that led to 16 years with Special Olympics.

Before Special Olympics, my family felt very alone. Now, we’re part of something bigger. One of my proudest moments was winning our first gold medal at Provincials in 2008.

I own my own business selling and repairing small engines and stay active by serving on the Guelph Community Council.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of something bigger than yourself.

My advice? Be kind. Be strong. Be humble — and have fun.

Hi! I’m Grant, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I started in Special Olympics when I was about 7 or 8 years old in downhill skiing, and I’ve now been involved for 21 years.

Special Olympics has kept me healthy and is where many of my friendships have grown. One of my proudest moments was competing at Nationals in Thunder Bay in 2020 for cross-country skiing.

Representing Team Ontario is wonderful, and I’m proud to compete for my province.

My advice? Keep trying and don’t stop.

Hi! I’m Harold, and I caddie in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through my daughter being involved with swimming, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics has made me more aware of the need to help in any way I can in the sports I’m involved in. I’ve always had the desire to volunteer in my community.

One of my proudest moments is being with my athletes on their journey and being part of their successes.

I am active as a coach in our golf program and sometimes help fundraise.

Being part of Team Ontario means all the years of hard work have paid off.

My advice? Enjoy the moments that you're about to be in.

Hi! I’m Harris, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I was invited to join my local Special Olympics activities, and I’ve now been involved for 25 years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made lots of friends and built lasting connections. One of my proudest moments was competing at the Provincial Games in Guelph.

I work two days a week at Canadian Tire in the warehouse and help with fundraising and supporting other sports in my community.

I’m looking forward to making more friends and seeing everyone at Nationals.

My advice? Do extra training during the winter and spring — it makes a difference!

Hi! I’m JD, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved in high school and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has been fun.

One of my proudest moments was Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means representing Thunder Bay.

My advice? Work hard.

Hi! I’m JJ, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved through softball, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 24 years.

Special Olympics has had a very big impact on my life. One of my proudest moments was winning gold in golf in Caledon. I’ve also competed in golf at Nationals before.

I stay active in my community by being involved in committees, councils, fundraisers, and leadership roles.

Being part of Team Ontario gives me the chance to meet other people and represent my community with pride.

Hi! I’m Jerome, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. My parents were athletes, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics is a good time with friends.

One of my proudest moments was winning in Brantford.

I work at Montana’s Bar and Grill and go to the gym three times a week.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot — it’s my first time going, and I’m looking forward to the competition.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy the game you play.

Hi! I’m Jack, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My parents signed me up, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for four years.

Special Olympics has been great.

One of my proudest moments is swimming. I have previously participated in figure skating.

I work at Tim Hortons.

Being part of Team Ontario feels good.

My advice? Be happy.

Hi! I’m Jackie, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I’ve been involved with Special Olympics for 13 years after first getting started thanks to my friend Rosie.

Special Olympics has helped me make more friends and grow my confidence. One of my proudest sport moments was winning gold in Brampton — that felt amazing! I’ve also competed at Nationals before in curling in Corner Brook, Newfoundland.

I work at McDonald’s on counter and drive-thru, and I stay active in my community by volunteering at Special Olympics events.

My advice? Just go out and do your best!

Hi! I’m Jackie, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Basketball! Volunteering with Special Olympics was on my bucket list after I retired from teaching, and I’ve now been involved for four years.

Special Olympics has introduced me to many new friends, and volunteering has been incredibly rewarding. One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Ontario Provincials in Basketball with our team.

I’m a retired elementary school teacher and now serve as Head Coach of D+ Basketball in London.

Being part of Team Ontario is so exciting — I love watching these athletes succeed.

My advice? Look after yourself so you can compete at your best.

Hi! I’m Jacob, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through friends and school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has given me wonderful new experiences.

One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in floor hockey at the National Winter Games.

I have been recognized as Athlete of the Year and made appearances at different events.

Being part of Team Ontario means being able to compete in another sport and meet new people.

My advice? Not applicable.

Hi! I’m Jacqueline, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved through a friend whose son was in Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 9 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet lots of other parents with kids similar to mine and makes me feel part of a community.

One of my proudest moments was when my son won gold in D1.

I stay active through fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means my son can fulfill his dream to be there.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy the friends you meet.

Hi! I’m James, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved when I started playing floor hockey at 16 years old, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 23 years.

Special Olympics has changed everything for me.

One of my proudest moments was going to the World Games for Floor Hockey. I’ve competed in Nationals in Quebec City, Alberta, Corner Brook, and Calgary, and at the World Games in Idaho and Australia.

I work at the University bookstore and take part in the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario means everything to me.

My advice? Work hard and have fun.

Hi! I’m Jamie, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved through a friend and have now been part of Special Olympics for three years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends and enjoy teaching the athletes.

One of my proudest moments was breaking par.

I stay active through coaching.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am proud of our athletes and want to help them succeed.

My advice? Have FUN.

Hi! I’m James, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved doing bowling with my sister in Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the program for eight years.

Special Olympics has given me a place where I can compete with others and feel supported. One of my proudest moments was attending Provincial Games and being named to Team Ontario.

I work at a restaurant called The Mill in Tillsonburg and stay active by participating in Torch Runs and Special Olympics donut events.

Being part of Team Ontario means being a representative and role model for others.

My advice? Always keep yourself surrounded by people who support and encourage you.

Hi! I’m Jamieson, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first joined the Halton Hills Waves Swimming Club and later expanded into rhythmic gymnastics.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made many new friends and learned new skills. One of my proudest moments was going to Provincials and being selected to attend Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario shows me that my hard work has paid off.

I enjoy helping out with fundraising whenever I can.

My advice? Keep working hard and believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Jasmyn, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario! I first got involved through one of my teachers in grade school and have now been part of Special Olympics for 19 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make friends and compete in sports I love. One of my biggest achievements was being selected to attend the Canada Games.

I work as a Food Merchandiser at Shoppers and stay active through fundraisers, the Torch Run, and the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario shows that my hard work has paid off.

My advice? Set your sights on getting a medal in your sport — and go after it.

Hi! I’m Jason, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved at school and have now been part of Special Olympics for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet lots of people.

One of my proudest moments was going to Provincials in Kitchener for the first time and winning 3 gold medals.

I stay active by attending a Live and Learn program.

Being part of Team Ontario means I have trained hard.

My advice? Don’t get upset after your lift — try your best.

Hi! I’m Jason, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through playing sports and have now been part of Special Olympics for 11 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends.

One of my proudest moments was going to the National Games.

I stay active by playing basketball and curling in the winter.

Being part of Team Ontario is exciting because this will be my first time at a National Games.

My advice? Keep up the hard work.

Hi! I’m Jason, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Special Olympics through swimming and bowling, and I’ve now been part of the movement for 31 years.

Special Olympics has had a huge impact on my life. I see myself as an athlete — just like Eric Liddell. One of my proudest moments was winning two Gold Medals in 2024. I’ve also competed at Nationals before, including Floor Hockey in Thunder Bay in 2020.

I work at Sobeys in the produce department and stay connected to my community through Trinity United Church.

Being part of Team Ontario means independence to me.

Hi! I’m Jaxon, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved by joining the softball team, and being part of Special Olympics has been awesome — it’s made me feel very happy.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold medals with all my team, and making Team Ontario means everything to me. I’m so proud to represent Ontario.

My advice? Try your best and have fun.

Hi! I’m Jennifer, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my high school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 23 years.

Special Olympics has helped me become less shy and make lots of friends. One of my biggest achievements was winning a gold medal for bowling at the World Games in Dubai. I’ve also competed at Nationals in PEI for bowling.

I work at Arc Industries as a cleaner and stay active through fundraisers and volunteering with new athletes.

Being part of Team Ontario means we worked hard as a team to get to Nationals.

My advice? Do your best — and have fun.

Hi! I’m Jennifer, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Swimming. I first got involved when my daughter was participating, and I volunteered to help out our team. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

I have been blessed with so many new friends. The Special Olympians remind me every day of the true joy that can be found in sport if you stop and enjoy the moment.

One of my proudest moments was watching the athletes cheer and support their teammates during the Provincial Games — and having the honour of carrying the Special Olympics flag during the opening ceremonies.

I am active as a Team Manager and swim coach in Cambridge, and I am a former Community Coordinator for the New Hamburg community.

Being part of Team Ontario is an honour. I’m excited to help these phenomenal athletes reach their goals and to experience this alongside my daughter as she takes part in her first National Games.

My advice? Practice hard, try your best, and always have fun.

Hi! I’m Jeremy, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Soccer. I first got involved by coaching sledge hockey for South Coast Special Needs for 18 years and through the Law Enforcement Torch Run. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 9 years.

Special Olympics brings joy and purpose to my life. It gives me another way to give back to my community.

One of my proudest moments is coaching.

I work as a Police Officer for the Ontario Provincial Police, and I stay active through the Law Enforcement Torch Run and coaching floorball.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’m excited to represent Ontario at the National Games.

My advice? Work hard and have fun.

Hi! I’m Jesse, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved because my friends were in it, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 21 years.

Special Olympics has made a big difference in my life. I used to get in trouble and was stressed — it has changed my life.

One of my proudest moments was being involved in all my sports and making Nationals for floor hockey.

I work at the Airport in Security.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me surprised and happy to be part of the team.

My advice? Don’t give up on your dreams and enjoy your time with your sports!

Hi! I’m Jessica, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. A family friend told my mom about rhythmic gymnastics, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 21 years.

I love being part of Special Olympics. I’ve been in it since I was 16, and I have improved so much.

One of my proudest moments was my first time at Nationals.

I work at St. George’s Daycare, where I have worked for 10 years.

Being part of Team Ontario means being proud of myself.

My advice? Try your hardest and work out to your full potential.

Hi! I’m Jessica, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I got involved thanks to my mom, dad, and sister. I started when I was 7 years old, and they have supported me all these years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life so much. I’ve been to 3 Provincial Games and now 2 National Games and have met so many friends over the years.

One of my proudest achievements is my hard work and dedication to bowling over 18 years. At the Provincial Games in Waterloo, I won silver as a team, gold as a pair, and gold individually. I told myself I at least wanted bronze — and I got all three medals.

Being part of Team Ontario means so much to me, especially as it’s coming up on ten years since I’ve been to National Games.

My advice?

You ain’t got friends — you got family.

You can either run from it or learn from it.

Hi! I’m Jessica, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! My mom found a program in our community after seeing it on TV, and that’s how my 29-year journey with Special Olympics began.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends and build confidence. One of my proudest moments was making Team Ontario for Athletics at the last National Games.

I’ve also competed at National Games in St. Albert, Alberta for Speed Skating and have participated in other National competitions as well.

I work as a bakery clerk at Metro and stay active by helping with fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’m lucky enough to represent Ontario again.

My advice? Worry about what you can control — like your training — and give it your best.

Hi! I’m Jocelyn, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. My mom took me to my first gymnastics class, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends — first meeting Brittany, Jessica, and Victoria, and becoming best friends afterwards.

One of my proudest moments was getting a gold medal at Provincials for rhythmic gymnastics in Level 1 floor routine.

I have been to Nationals before in Rhythmic Gymnastics in Antigonish.

I volunteer at Monsignor Phillip Coffey Elementary School with JK and SK students, and I stay active through soccer, basketball, baseball, rhythmic gymnastics, Mercury Dance Academy, and volunteering at school with my family.

Being part of Team Ontario is exciting — meeting new people and going to new places in the world.

My advice? Listen to what you're told, use manners, be polite, and stay focused.

Hi! I’m John, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through word of mouth, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 28 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet new people and try new sports. One of my proudest moments was being part of Team Ontario and going to Nationals for Softball.

Being part of Team Ontario means a whole lot to me.

My advice? Don’t be afraid to try new things — and never give up.

Hi! I’m Josee, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved by going to registration at fall sign-up and never looked back. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make a lot more friends, become a lot less shy, and be more outgoing.

One of my proudest moments was going to the World Games twice and bringing back medals for my country and hometown.

I have participated in London 2012 (National), Vancouver 2014, Nova Scotia 2018 (National), Dubai 2019, and Germany 2023.

I work in long-term care as a PSW and serve as a mentor for younger athletes.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot of dedication and work. It also means being part of a family.

My advice? You just have to believe you can do it.

Hi! I’m Joseph, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I first got involved in 2015 through high school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for eight years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life in many ways, giving me the chance to compete and grow. One of my biggest achievements was competing at Provincials. I’ve also participated in World Games before.

I work at Next Supply Hydronics in the warehouse and recently helped with fundraising initiatives.

I’m in awe and so proud to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Be proud of how far you’ve come — and keep pushing forward.

Hi! I’m Joshua, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my gym teacher, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for six years.

Special Olympics has helped me grow as a person and build confidence. One of my proudest moments was hitting a buzzer-beater shot in basketball — a moment I’ll never forget.

Being part of Team Ontario feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy every moment.

Hi! I’m Julia, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved when another family introduced us to Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the community for 17 years.

Special Olympics gives me opportunities to participate in sport and represent my community. One of my biggest achievements has been becoming stronger and continuing to grow as an athlete.

I attend public events representing my local Special Olympics community and love being involved.

I’m excited to attend the National Games and represent Ontario.

My advice? Let’s train hard and prepare together for Nationals!

Hi! I’m Justin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through Challenger League and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new friends while staying healthy and active.

One of my proudest moments was winning Nationals Gold in Antigonish with the Durham Falcons. I also participated in the 2018 National Summer Games in Antigonish for Softball.

I work at Service Canada as a Public Service Officer.

I stay active by attending local fundraisers to spread awareness about Special Olympics and by completing the Athlete Leadership Program.

Being part of Team Ontario gives me an amazing opportunity to compete on a big stage while meeting athletes from all over the country.

My advice?

Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Do your best and have fun!

Hi! I’m Justin, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I got involved with Special Olympics when I met my girlfriend in basketball — her name is Paula Finamore — and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 11 years.

To me, Special Olympics is about meeting new friends, hanging out with athletes, and having tons of fun while getting exercise.

One of my biggest achievements was at Kitchener-Waterloo, having bronze, silver, and gold around my neck.

I have competed in Basketball and Swimming at Nationals.

I work at Hartland Zehrs in Guelph, Ontario, as a front-end packer.

I stay active by working out in my condo in Guelph and doing tutoring and other activities.

Being part of Team Ontario means fulfilling my dreams — bowling is something that makes sense in my life right now.

My advice? Just have fun and make friends along the way.

Hi! I’m Kara, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved with Special Olympics through my community, and I’ve now been part of the program for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me become more independent and confident. One of my proudest moments was finding out I made Team Ontario.

I work at Sobeys pushing carts and stay active by helping with fundraising in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — it’s one of my biggest goals achieved.

My advice? Get out in your community wearing your Special Olympics gear and be proud!

Hi! I’m Karen, and I’m proud to be part of Team Ontario in Softball! I first got involved when my son was being teased in regular sports, and Special Olympics became a place where he — and our family — felt welcomed and supported.

Special Olympics has given me a completely different outlook, especially seeing athletes succeed and grow. I’m so proud of all of these athletes and excited to attend Nationals with them.

I work as a manager at Tim Hortons and stay active by volunteering, coaching, and supporting the program whenever needed.

My advice? Enjoy every moment. Have fun and make new friends!

Hi! I’m Karim, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved through friends, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

I’ve competed at Provincials twice and have won two gold medals and one silver — moments I’m really proud of.

I’m active in my community through leadership roles, and I also work in a government advisor role where I help communicate what people want and need.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very happy.

My advice? Put your game face on and give it your best.

Hi! I’m Kayla, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved because of my mom, and I’ve now been swimming with Special Olympics for 20 years.

Swimming has been part of my life for a long time and keeps me active and focused. One of my biggest achievements was going to the Canada Games in 2017 as one of the top two athletes.

I’ve also competed at Nationals in 2018 for Swimming.

It’s an honour to represent Team Ontario at Nationals.

My advice? Follow your dreams in your sport.

Hi! I’m Kayla, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! Special Olympics was suggested to me by my educational assistant, and I’ve now been involved for 15 years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve learned how to live a healthy lifestyle and gained valuable experiences. I attended the 2014 National Games in Vancouver for Swimming, and now I’m proud to compete again.

I work at Marathon High School as a custodian and attend community meetings to stay involved.

Being part of Team Ontario means everything to me.

My advice? Do your very best at whatever you are doing.

Hi! I’m Kealyn, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first learned about the Halton Hills rhythmic gymnastics program, and that’s where my Special Olympics journey began 10 years ago.

Special Olympics has been one of the most transformative parts of my life. One of my proudest moments has been representing my community and earning my place on Team Ontario.

I work at Lunchbox Café and Catering in Milton and stay active within my Special Olympics community whenever I can.

Being part of Team Ontario is an incredible honour.

My advice? Give your best effort and believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Keira, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first got involved because of my mom, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends and grow through sport. My biggest sport achievement so far has been making it to Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me because I’ve overcome challenges along the way.

My advice? Never give up and keep trying until you succeed.

Hi! I’m Keith, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a coach, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 40 years.

Special Olympics has helped me stay in shape.

One of my proudest moments was competing at Worlds. I have also participated in Powerlifting.

I work in motel cleaning and stay active through walking leadership.

Being part of Team Ontario means having fun.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Kelsey, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through family and friends and have now been part of Special Olympics for nine years.

Special Olympics has helped me grow personally and develop strong team-building skills. I’ve previously participated at Nationals in Curling.

I’m self-employed making knitted items and stay active in my community through volunteering.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me proud of my team.

My advice? Do your best — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Kevin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My parents introduced me to Special Olympics in curling, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

I’ve made many new friends through all the sports I play.

One of my proudest moments is attending Nationals for bocce and many Provincial Games for curling and swimming. I have attended National Games before.

I work at Canadian Tire, where I help customers find things and stock shelves. I’m active in various fundraisers like the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me both excited and proud to attend the National Games in Medicine Hat.

My advice? Enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Kevin, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved when my cousin was a head coach and I joined. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 28 years.

Special Olympics has helped me stay in excellent condition with exercise.

One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals.

I deliver flyers for work.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new people and playing against new teams.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Kimberley, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved with my speedskating team heading to a Toronto meet back in 2020, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 5 years.

Special Olympics has helped with my confidence and believing in myself more, and I’ve met new friends and members.

One of my proudest moments was heading to Nationals for the first time — skating on the ice was awesome. I participated at Nationals in 2024 for speedskating.

I work part-time on the production crew for an AHL hockey team for camera and related roles, and I stay active through volunteering.

Being part of Team Ontario means trying to beat my personal best times.

My advice? Be confident in yourself.

Hi! I’m Kimana, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first got involved after meeting an athlete at a Special Olympics golf tournament. I found out more information, and my parents considered the opportunity for me to join.

Special Olympics gave me the ability to be an athlete in a sport I love. That impact has transferred into my academics, work experiences, and all areas of my personal life. It has helped me develop leadership and confidence. Special Olympics has been so supportive and encouraging, which motivates me to do my best.

One of my biggest achievements was going to my first World Games in Los Angeles in 2015. I’ve been to two other World Games as well, and I’m a 3-time World Champion. At the Berlin World Games, I also earned Canada’s first gold medal.

I’ve competed at Nationals in Vancouver and Antigonish, NS, and at World Games in LA, Abu Dhabi, and Berlin.

I stay active in my community through the Torch Run, Champion Breakfast, and Tim Hortons events.

Being part of Team Ontario means showing my love for the sport, meeting new people, and having so much fun.

My advice? Be brave, enjoy the Games, and enjoy your journey.

Hi! I’m Kimberly, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first became interested in sport after watching Rachel Homan win juniors in curling — and that inspired me to get involved.

Special Olympics is part of my daily balance and the foundation of my active lifestyle. One of my proudest moments was winning in curling at the 2024 Calgary Winter Games.

I stay active by participating in local fundraising activities.

Being part of Team Ontario has taught me that I’m part of a team — not just an individual.

My advice? Learn to cooperate and support one another.

Hi! I’m Kristen, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved playing T-ball, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 21 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life by helping me meet new friends and grow as an athlete. One of my biggest achievements was being asked to be an Athlete Ambassador.

I’ve participated at National Games before, including in Vancouver.

I work at Sobeys and have been there for over six years. I’m also active in my community as an Athlete Ambassador.

Being part of Team Ontario means representing something bigger than myself.

My advice? I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 21 years — stay committed, work hard, and enjoy the journey.

Hi! I’m Krystian, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved when a friend gave me the name of the coach for the golf team, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 9 years.

Special Olympics has helped me with my confidence, and I’ve met lots of friends.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Provincials.

I stay active through fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’ve been hoping to compete at Nationals for a long time, and I’m very excited.

My advice? Do your best and have fun.

Hi! I’m Kyle, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first heard about the bowling league through friends, and that’s how my Special Olympics journey began seven years ago.

Special Olympics has helped me make many friends and stay active. One of my biggest achievements was winning four medals at the Provincial Games in Waterloo.

I stay involved by attending events like Motionball and the Torch Run.

I’m very proud to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Always be kind — and work hard.

Hi! I’m Kyle, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved when my friend in high school was doing 5-pin bowling, and I decided to join too — that was 23 years ago.

Special Olympics has given me so many friends and incredible opportunities. One of my proudest moments was going to the National Games in London, Ontario for Track and Field.

I work as a cleaner at a machine shop called Barrie Welding and have spoken about Special Olympics at golf tournaments to help promote the program.

Being part of Team Ontario is very special to me.

My advice? Train hard and don’t miss practices — it makes all the difference.

Hi! I’m Kyle, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! I got started four years ago through a friend and teammate, and I work at Dragonfly sorting mail and packages.

Special Olympics has helped me become more confident in myself and my abilities, and I’ve gained great friends along the way. One of my proudest moments was walking out into the opening ceremonies at the 2025 Provincial Games in Brantford — hearing the applause and salutes from the men and women in uniform is a moment I won’t forget.

Being part of Team Ontario is everything to me. This is the pinnacle of my soccer career so far.

My advice? Be brave and be strong — but don’t be reckless. Fight until the last whistle!

Hi! I’m Laura, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first got involved after a family member told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the program for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me stay physically active and build confidence. One of my proudest moments was qualifying for the 2026 Summer National Games.

I work at Foodland in the Bakery Department and stay active by participating in Special Olympics sports and community activities.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new people and sharing this experience together.

My advice? Have fun, try your hardest, and ask for help if you need it.

Hi! I’m Laura, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Soccer. I first got involved through Shannon and have now been part of Special Olympics for two years.

Special Olympics is very rewarding for me.

One of my proudest moments was making the coaching staff.

I work in long term care.

Being part of Team Ontario means I want to give the best to our athletes.

My advice? Try your best — everyone is proud of you.

Hi! I’m Letisha, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! My brother started in Special Olympics first, and I joined five years later — now I’ve been involved for 17 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends and be part of a strong team. One of my proudest moments was winning gold at the 2024 Provincial Games.

Being part of Team Ontario means I get to be with my team and hang out with my friends while competing at Nationals.

My advice? Have fun!

Hi! I’m Lizzy, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I heard about Special Olympics from a friend and decided to try it out — and I’ve now been involved for 10 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet amazing friends and make tons of memories — from my first tournament to my first Provincials and now my first Nationals.

One of my proudest moments was winning my first gold medal at Provincials.

I work at the Club of White Oaks in Niagara-on-the-Lake as a club cleaner.

Being part of Team Ontario means I have a lot of respect and pride for our province of Ontario and my family.

My advice? Do your best and have fun doing it.

Hi! I’m Logan, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved through coaching golf and the Law Enforcement Torch Run, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has given me great memories and lifetime friendships.

One of my proudest moments has been helping coach golf.

I stay active through LETR and coaching golf and basketball.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me excited and proud.

My advice? Never give up.

Hi! I’m Lorinne, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I started in Track and Field in Oakville when I was 25, and then started golfing when I was 40 in Florida. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 30 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends and enjoy traveling to different places.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold at the Brantford Provincial Games.

I participated in Golf at the World Games in Los Angeles in 2015 and in Nationals in Calgary in 2024 for Floor Hockey.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting and making new friends and competing as part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Keep your eye on the ball and enjoy yourself!

Hi! I’m Lori, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Tenpin. I first got involved through the Super Hero Race and have now been part of Special Olympics for 11 years.

Special Olympics has given me some of the best times so far in my life.

One of my proudest moments is watching our athletes achieve their goals and seeing the excitement of a new experience and a new friendship being made.

I am active as a Community Coordinator.

Being part of Team Ontario means seeing friends I’ve made along the way and watching the faces of medal winners — and how these amazing athletes help each other when they lose.

My advice? Take the time to meet someone new.

Hi! I’m Luke, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I started in the Active Start and FUNdamentals programs and have now been involved for 13 years.

Special Olympics helps me stay fit and keep improving. One of my proudest moments was going to Provincials.

I stay active by playing sports and sometimes helping my coach, Brian.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel proud.

My advice? Listen to your coaches and keep learning.

Hi! I’m Luke, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved through a Down Syndrome Association group that introduced me to Special Olympics — and I’ve now been part of the community for 25 years.

Special Olympics has given me great opportunities to stay active and compete. One of my proudest moments was qualifying for Team Ontario and attending the Winter National Games in Calgary in 2024 for Bowling.

I work at Sobey’s in the produce department and help with initiatives like Smile Cookie fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me excited and proud. I love playing sports and representing my community.

My advice? Do your best, have fun, and be kind and encouraging to others.

Hi! I’m Mandy, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Soccer. I first got involved through coaching softball and have now been part of Special Olympics for two years.

Special Olympics has absolutely impacted my life.

One of my proudest moments was making the coaching staff for the National Games.

I work as an Activity Manager at Cassellholme.

Being part of Team Ontario is a chance of a lifetime.

My advice? Have fun, enjoy, and make memories.

Hi! I’m Maria, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. I started with track and then rhythmic gymnastics — my mom got me registered. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has given me a safe space to be myself and a place where friends accept me for who I am and where I can have fun.

One of my proudest moments is anytime I go up to perform.

I work at Wendy’s as a crew member. I stay active by going to different events like fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means I have the honour to represent Ontario, see old friends from around the province, meet new friends, and have fun.

My advice? Believe in yourself. Reach for the stars — they will come to you and you will shine!

Hi! I’m Mark, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 25 years. I can’t remember exactly how I first got involved, but it’s been a big part of my life ever since.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends.

One of my proudest moments was earning 3 gold medals at the Waterloo Provincial Games.

I work at McMaster University as a sports complex attendant and take part in fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am proud.

My advice? Everyone should try their best and have fun!

Hi! I’m Marley, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first started in Special Olympics with five pin bowling — my mom put me in it to get more social.

Special Olympics has made me more confident and social and has kept me in shape.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold at the Berlin World Games and seeing how many Special Olympics athletes there are. My parents were proud of me, and pin trading was fun.

I previously competed in National Games for Cross Country Skiing.

I work full time at Tim Hortons, where I do cleaning, make coffee, and serve baked goods. I participate in fundraising, including the Torch Run and helping out at the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario means the world to me — I’m very excited and happy to show what I can do.

My advice? Keep working hard and training, and any athlete or coach can help at Nationals — go for it.

Hi! I’m Matthew, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Powerlifting. I first got involved after attending a practice and knowing it was something I wanted to be part of. I also wanted to provide information and experience to aid the athletes I coach.

Special Olympics has had a huge impact on my life. Working a stressful job, it has helped me deal with negative stress and find happiness and joy in people.

One of my proudest moments has been being the Head Coach for Windsor Powerlifting and training two athletes who qualified for Nationals for the first time for our city.

I’m active as Head Coach for Powerlifting, raising money for Special Olympics, and participating in the Polar Plunge and Torch Run.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot of hard work and consistency paying off over countless hours of training. It’s a feeling of pride and accomplishment for me and my team.

My advice? Consistency and hard work are keys to success — even when you fail. Don’t look back, only forward.

Hi! I’m Mathew, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through public school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 27 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends.

One of my proudest moments was winning 2 Provincials.

I previously competed in Soccer at the 2013 Vancouver Games.

I work as a Cleaner at a casino, and I stay active by playing sport.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lifetime.

My advice? Never stop believing.

Hi! I’m Matthew, and I’m proud to represent Team Ontario in Swimming! I first got involved because my cousin was an athlete on the same team I’m still part of today — and I’ve now been involved with Special Olympics for 30 years.

Special Olympics was my first coaching experience, and it has played a huge role in shaping my journey in sport. One of my proudest moments has been being able to coach at Nationals.

I stay active in my community by helping run our local swimming team and serving as a DTM.

My advice? Bring the right attitude and always do your best.

Hi! I’m Maya, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved in high school and have now been part of Special Olympics for three years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends.

One of my proudest moments was scoring lots of goals at Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very proud of our team and how hard we worked.

My advice? Work hard and you will win.

Hi! I’m Megan, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. Sandra made me join, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make new friends.

One of my proudest moments was going to the Yukon.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel really proud and excited to be part of the Games.

My advice? Keep working hard and keep a positive attitude.

Hi! I’m Meghan, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first became involved in swimming when I was younger and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has given me community and independence. One of my proudest moments was running my first 3000-metre race in 2013 — a big accomplishment for me!

I’ve also competed at Nationals in track in Nova Scotia.

I stay active as an engaged member of my team and volunteer whenever I can.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel proud to represent Ontario on a national stage.

My advice? Anything is possible if you believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Missy, and I’m proud to represent Team Ontario in Tenpin Bowling! 🎳 I’ve been involved with Special Olympics for 12 years. I first got involved when I met a friend through SOO 10 Pin Bowling — and from there, everything grew.

Special Olympics has had a big impact on my life. It’s helped me meet new people, make new friends, and try new things. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in Guelph and then again at Provincials — that felt amazing!

Being chosen to attend the 2026 National Games in Medicine Hat makes me really happy. I’m proud to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Have fun and try your best. Don’t cry — just give it your all!

Hi! I’m Mert, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. My dad helped me get involved with Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 10 years.

Special Olympics helps me meet new people and connect with others.

One of my proudest moments was competing in the 2025 Summer Provincial Games with the Burlington soccer team, and also in the 2016 Summer Provincial Games with Burlington track and field.

I work at Movati Athletic as cleaning staff.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot, and it’s going to be a really good learning experience.

My advice? Always have fun. It doesn’t matter if you're winning or losing — always have fun.

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved through basketball and have now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make new friends.

One of my proudest moments was getting to go to the AUE.

I work at Sarang Kitchen, where I serve customers.

I tell people about Special Olympics Ontario in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am proud.

My advice? Have fun and be yourself.

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved through my grandpa and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life a lot — I have met some of my closest friends through Special Olympics.

One of my proudest moments was scoring the gold medal goal in Thunder Bay in 2020.

I have participated in 2014 Vancouver and 2024 Calgary.

I work at Lakeview Bowl in Peterborough, Ontario as a Pin Cashier, and I help with fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot. I am very happy to go to Nationals.

My advice? Enjoy the moment and have fun.

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I was asked to participate, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has been a great life experience.

One of my proudest moments was making two National golf teams. I previously participated in Golf at Nationals in 2018 in Antigonish.

Being part of Team Ontario means mission accomplished.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My parents signed me up, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me with my physical and mental health and allowed me to meet new people.

One of my proudest moments was being named Athlete of the Year and getting 2nd place at the 2025 Special Olympics Winter World Games for figure skating.

I have also been part of the 2024 National Winter Games and the 2025 Winter World Games for figure skating.

I have been active in the Special Olympics community for many years as an athlete.

Being part of Team Ontario is a huge honor.

My advice? Don’t stress out — just try your best and have fun.

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a friend invited me while I was bowling recreationally, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

I really enjoy the competitive aspect of sport and pushing myself to improve. One of my proudest moments was winning three medals at a Provincial Games.

I work part-time at Great Lakes Brewery and stay active year-round, including playing lawn bowling in the summer.

This will be my first time going to Alberta, and I’m excited to represent Team Ontario.

My advice? Keep working. Keep going — even if you have a bad game.

Hi! I’m Mike, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when I was asked to volunteer.

Special Olympics has impacted my life because I love to coach smiling athletes.

One of my proudest moments was being a 10-time Ontario postal curling champion. I also participated in 2018 Antigonish.

Being part of Team Ontario means mission accomplished.

My advice? HAVE fun.

Hi! I’m Mike, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when Tess started 5-pin bowling, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 24 years.

Special Olympics has taught me many lessons about inclusion, diversity, and the ability of sport to change people’s lives and build their confidence and self-esteem.

One of my proudest moments was caddying for Tess in Abu Dhabi and witnessing her two holes in one.

I’m active in my community as a member of the local community council, coach of the local SO golf program, and mentor to the local athlete leadership council. Our golf team also raised $5,700 through the Golf Ontario 1000 Ball Challenge.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’m looking forward to being part of the team and sharing in their journey.

My advice? Believe in yourself and don’t forget to have fun!

Hi! I’m Mitch, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when my younger brother became a Special Olympics golfer and asked me to caddy his first tournament — and I’ve been riding his coattails ever since.

Each Special Olympics event you go to, and the many people you meet along the way, combine to impact every part of your life.

One of my proudest moments is watching my brother crush a drive or sink a 25-foot putt in front of a crowd — equal parts pride and “poop your pants” as a caddy.

I haven’t been very active yet in other roles, but I would like to discover ways I can be more helpful to the organization.

Being part of Team Ontario means I love seeing how proud and hyped the athletes are competing for their friends and for a shot at representing Canada.

My advice? Be yourself. Enjoy the competition while you're there.

Hi! I’m Morgan, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when another Special Olympics athlete told me about the program, and I’ve now been part of it for 22 years.

Special Olympics has made me more comfortable and confident. One of my proudest achievements was competing at the 2018 National Games in Nova Scotia for Basketball.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of a team and competing against others at a high level.

My advice? Work hard and enjoy the games.

Hi! I’m Nadine, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first started in 5-pin bowling during COVID and have now been involved with Special Olympics for five years.

Special Olympics has helped me become more active and involved in my community. One of my proudest moments was making it to Nationals for Figure Skating in 2024 in Calgary.

I work with the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board and help with fundraising initiatives in my community.

I’m proud to represent Team Ontario and give it my all.

My advice? Work hard, train hard, and believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Nancy, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Tenpin. I first got involved through a friend and have now been part of Special Olympics for 23 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new people.

One of my proudest moments was being a coach at Nationals. I have previously participated in 5 and 10-pin bowling at Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new people.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Natasha, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first applied to join Special Olympics Oakville golf, but a coach recommended Mississauga since the golfers were at a higher level. Later, while playing at the Ontario Adaptive Open, the coach from Hamilton Competitive Olympics golf approached me. The level was higher, and we played on real golf courses — which helped me improve my skills even more.

Special Olympics has allowed me to feel like I fit in. I used to feel like I didn’t belong or wasn’t good enough. Now I feel comfortable, and I’ve met golfers from around the world and made many new friends.

One of my biggest achievements was competing at the 2023 Berlin World Games for golf. I broke my ankle in February and had to work hard in physio. I wasn’t able to practice for months and was only cleared to play just before Berlin. The days were long and hot, and we weren’t allowed carts, so my ankle was sore and swollen. But I didn’t give up. I won a bronze medal, and I hope to go to another World Games and do even better.

I worked at Dearcroft Montessori School as a teacher’s helper and also walk dogs. I help Hamilton Special Olympics with fundraising events like hitting 1,000 golf balls, Sobey’s annual golf tournament, Bright Spot, Storm King Invitational events, and Tim Hortons Special Olympics donut campaigns.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot — I’ve worked very hard to earn my spot, and I want to show that if you put your mind and heart into the sport you love, you can achieve your goals.

My advice? It’s an honour to be part of this group. Have fun, be respectful, and always do your best to represent your sport and Ontario.

Hi! I’m Nehan, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved after my parents convinced me to try swimming, which I ended up being a big fan of. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet new and interesting people.

One of my proudest moments was getting 3 gold medals at the Provincial Games.

Being part of Team Ontario means I can demonstrate my skills to my family, my community, and my province.

My advice?

No matter how different you may be from your peers, remember that one thing that will be the same is the determination for the game.

Hi! I’m Neil, and I coach Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved because my daughter is an athlete, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 30 years.

Sports have always been important in my life, and Special Olympics has allowed me to stay involved and support athletes. One of my proudest moments was coaching my soccer team at the World Games.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me proud to see athletes reach a higher level of competition.

My advice? Train hard — but have fun while you’re doing it.

Hi! I’m Nicole, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved through Sandra and have now been part of Special Olympics for three years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make new friends and have fun.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold and getting into Provincials.

I volunteered with Special Olympics when I was younger in bowling.

Being part of Team Ontario means being happy, being excited, and being proud.

My advice? Be a good team member. I will be wearing a bass pro hat.

Hi! I’m Nicole, and I’m proud to serve as Mission Staff for Team Ontario! I first got involved when I was asked to help start a new sport program — and that opportunity led to 15 years of involvement.

Special Olympics has shown me the true meaning of sport and teamwork. One of my proudest moments has been seeing multiple athletes from the Speed Skating program reach major competitions.

I’m active as Team Manager for London Speed Skating and at the provincial level. Being part of Team Ontario means the world to me.

My advice? Work hard, try your best, and enjoy every minute!

Hi! I’m Patricia, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when I managed a floor hockey team for my son, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 25 years.

Special Olympics has made everything more aware of people with disabilities.

One of my proudest moments has been watching the athletes succeed.

I have previously participated as a Coach in 2012 Curling, Caddied in 2018 Golf, and was Head Coach in 2020 and 2024 Curling.

I stay active in my community through coaching, caddying, and community council involvement.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me proud to represent my province.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Peggy, and I’m part of Team Ontario as Mission Staff. I first got involved as a parent, helping support the start of Active Start in Orono, NB, and supporting my son in his journey in NB, NS, and AB. I later volunteered on the community council in Labrador West and was thrilled to join the community council with SO Ottawa as Program Chair when I moved back to Ontario in 2023.

As a mom and volunteer, Special Olympics brings so much meaning to my life. I get to see the impact of the movement on athletes, their families, and communities.

One of my proudest moments has been introducing new programs and sports to Special Olympics communities.

I work with the Canadian Armed Forces and am active as Community Council Chair, Athletics Coach, Bocce Coach, Powerlifting mom, Snowshoeing mom, and cheerleader for everything else.

Being part of Team Ontario means getting to be part of athletes’ successes — whatever their goals are.

My advice?

As athletes, you are all leaders — inspiring others through your hard work and accomplishments. Keep doing what you're doing, believe in yourself, and don’t be afraid to test your limits!

Hi! I’m Peter, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved by taking my daughter to the practice range at a Special Olympics practice.

Special Olympics has given my daughter confidence not only in her golf abilities but also confidence in herself.

One of my proudest moments was when my daughter qualified for the Berlin World Games 2023 in Golf and competed against the best in the world. It was a fantastic experience and allowed her to grow as a person.

I work at Caldwell Banker Commercial Real Estate as a Realtor, focusing on purchase and sale of investment properties. I am also a Volunteer Coach at Special Olympics Hamilton Golf.

Being part of Team Ontario is another opportunity to meet new friends, be part of a close-knit team, and compete against the best Canada has to offer.

My advice?

Keep trying to do better each and every day. You are not competing against others — you are competing against yourself. Improve yourself every day. And remember to have fun and make friends along the way.

Hi! I’m Randi, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. A friend told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 14 years.

Special Olympics helped me find a love of competing, and I really enjoy being part of the Women’s Soccer team.

One of my proudest moments was getting my first goal while I was in the Yukon.

I work at Tim Hortons.

Being part of Team Ontario means having my family come to Nationals to cheer me on. I’m proud to share this with them.

My advice? Positive vibes go a long way!

Hi! I’m Ray, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through softball, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 32 years.

Special Olympics has given me more confidence.

One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in golf at my first SONA in South Carolina.

I previously competed in 2012 Curling and 2014 Golf at Nationals.

I work at Rona as a front end loader, and besides being an athlete, I am also a volunteer softball coach.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me proud.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Ray, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my friends, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new friends and stay active. One of my proudest moments was going to Corner Brook, Newfoundland for skiing at Nationals — that was an incredible experience.

I also support my community by helping with fundraisers, including selling programs at hockey games.

My advice? Have fun and meet new friends — that’s what it’s all about!

Hi! I’m Renee, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Special Olympics when I started swimming at nine years old, and I’ve now been part of the movement for 25 years.

I love sports, and Special Olympics has helped keep me active while building friendships along the way. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in bocce at the Ontario Provincials.

I work at the Jarrett Value Centre Thrift Store and participate in community fundraising events.

Being part of Team Ontario gives me the opportunity to compete at a higher level, and I’m proud to represent my community.

My advice? Work hard and be proud — you’re already a champion.

Hi! I’m Riley, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I joined Special Olympics when I turned 16 and started in skiing and softball.

It’s been amazing meeting new friends and competing at different levels. One of my proudest moments was going to the Provincial Games in Brantford.

Being part of Team Ontario is an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to represent my community at Nationals.

My advice? Always try your best.

Hi! I’m Rob, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Swimming. I first got involved when a friend asked me to help coach, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 43 years.

Special Olympics has shown me not to sweat the small things in life.

One of my proudest moments is sharing knowledge in sports.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of a team.

My advice? Work hard — you are already a winner.

Hi! I’m Robert, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Softball! I first got involved when my son became an athlete in 2021, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for four years.

Coaching has been an extremely rewarding experience. One of my proudest moments was our team winning a gold medal at the 2025 Provincial Games.

I work as Director of Call Centre Operations and stay active by coaching softball, athletics, soccer, basketball, and more.

Being part of Team Ontario is a great opportunity to support athletes and represent our community.

My advice? Most of the work happens during training — prepare well and trust the process.

Hi! I’m Robert, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a coach from Special Olympics Brampton gymnastics introduced me to the program.

Special Olympics has given me the opportunity to get involved in the community and stay active. One of my proudest achievements was making it to Provincials and then qualifying further.

Being part of Team Ontario is a very proud moment for me.

My advice? Get involved in your community and be proud to represent your team.

Hi! I’m Robyn, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a family friend told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 30 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends — not just in my own community, but across Ontario and beyond. One of my proudest moments was winning a Bronze Medal at the World Games.

I’ve also competed at the 2010 National Games in London for Softball.

I stay active by helping out at fundraisers, tournaments, and community events.

Being part of Team Ontario is another opportunity to meet new people and represent proudly.

My advice? Relax, enjoy the whole experience, and don’t stress — you’ve earned it.

Hi! I’m Rodney, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved after friends and family told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new people.

One of my proudest moments was winning Provincials in Brantford.

I attend fundraisers in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means I like being part of the team.

My advice? I don’t know.

Hi! I’m Rori, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when my mom connected with someone in our town who coached Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the program for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet many new people and travel to different places. One of my proudest moments was earning five medals at the Provincial Games for track and field.

Being part of Team Ontario gives me the chance to visit new places and push myself further.

My advice? Don’t give up.

Hi! I’m Rose, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first learned about Special Olympics from my Grade 9 teacher, and I’ve now been involved for 14 years.

Special Olympics has made a big difference in my life — especially through staying active and building strength. One of my proudest achievements has been making it to the Canada Games and now to Nationals.

I enjoy helping out with fundraisers whenever I can, and I’m grateful to be part of Team Ontario at the 2026 National Games.

My advice? Never give up on your goals, even when things get tough.

Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved by joining a basketball program in Greater Durham, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 21 years.

I love sports and being active in competition. One of my biggest achievements was making Provincials, which was a proud moment for me.

Being selected for Team Ontario is so exciting — I can hardly contain it! I’m proud to represent my community.

My advice? Work hard, listen to your coaches, and most of all — have fun.

Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Special Olympics through Track and Field in elementary school, and I’ve now been part of the community for 15 years.

Special Olympics showed me that I’m not alone and helped me grow as a person. One of my proudest achievements was going to the National Games in 2016 — and again in 2020.

I work at Vineland Foodland and stay active by talking about and promoting Special Olympics in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means everything to me, and I’ll work hard to represent my province.

My advice? Try hard, work hard — and most importantly, have fun.

Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My dad got me involved, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has taught me about leadership.

One of my proudest moments was getting an award in Chicago.

Being part of Team Ontario made me happy to be part of the team.

My advice? Keep working hard! Challenge yourself! Don’t give up and just have fun!

Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I was introduced to Special Olympics in high school, and I’ve now been involved for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me gain confidence and grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was taking home gold at the Provincial Games — and continuing to push myself forward.

I work as a supervisor at a line painting company and stay active by being part of my work’s social committee and participating in sports.

I’m so honoured to represent my community at Nationals.

My advice? Remember to have fun, try your best, be a good teammate — and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Samantha, and I’m part of Team Ontario as Mission Staff. I first started coaching floor hockey as an excuse to stay out late — my brother was an athlete on the team and I didn’t think it was fair he got to stay up later than me. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 26 years.

Special Olympics has taught me the true meaning of teamwork, inclusion, and joy. Over the years, I have seen how sports can break down barriers and build lasting friendships. The experience has made me a better coach, a more patient leader, and a stronger advocate for equality and respect.

One of my proudest moments was representing Canada as Head Coach for Floor Hockey at the 2013 World Winter Games in PyeongChang.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of something bigger. It’s about supporting each other and celebrating success together.

My advice? Enjoy every moment.

Hi! I’m Sara, and I’m proud to be a Swimming Coach with Team Ontario! I first got involved because my mom helped start our first local teams, and I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 9 years.

Special Olympics has helped develop my passion, empathy, and leadership skills. Being selected as part of the management staff for Nationals means a lot to me.

As a coach, my advice is simple: trust your preparation and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Sarah, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Bocce! I was introduced to Special Olympics 12 years ago through the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Coaching in Special Olympics has become so much more than just teaching sport — it’s about learning from athletes and building community. One of my proudest moments has been watching athletes grow and succeed through their dedication.

Being part of Team Ontario is an absolute honour.

My advice? Train hard, do your best, and be proud and humble in everything you do.

Hi! I’m Scott, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I first got involved because I wanted to play baseball, so I joined softball — and that started my 23-year journey with Special Olympics.

Special Olympics has helped me stay active and build many friendships. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal for golf at Provincials. I’ve also won gold with my Floor Hockey team at the National Games.

I manage the carts at Food Basics and help with fundraising events in my community.

Representing Team Ontario at Nationals is a great honour.

My advice? Believe in yourself — and have fun.

Hi! I’m Shane, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I can’t remember how I first got involved, but I’ve made lots of new friends through Special Olympics.

One of my proudest moments has been being able to play.

Being part of Team Ontario means a hole lot.

My advice? Have fun and try your best.

Hi! I’m Shannon, and I coach Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved 41 years ago after seeing athletes playing baseball on my way home — and I’ve been part of Special Olympics ever since.

Special Olympics has strengthened my belief that anything is possible. One of my proudest moments was flying to Windsor with fellow bowling athletes — it was the first time I'd ever flown.

I stay active in my community in many ways, from volunteering at bingo to coaching and coordinating programs.

My advice? Sleep when you can and take advantage of every opportunity!

Hi! I’m Shayne, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through school programs and have now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make many friends from different schools and communities. One of my proudest moments has been participating in tournaments and competing with my team.

I work at Zehrs grocery store pushing carts and helping customers.

I’m so happy and excited to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Good luck — and stay positive!

Hi! I’m Sheila, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Bocce! I joined the Milton Special Olympics Facebook group and quickly became involved — I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for six years.

After volunteering with golf, I saw firsthand the impact of the program and became even more committed. One of my proudest moments as a coach has been attending Provincials with athletes.

I’m active as a Golf Team Manager and Curling Coach in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario is a continuation of my love for Special Olympics.

My advice? Enjoy the time leading up to the Games and do your best.

Hi! I’m Sheldon, and I’m proud to represent Team Ontario in Basketball. I first got involved when my gym teacher in elementary school told me about Special Olympics basketball — and I’ve been in it ever since.

Special Olympics has impacted my life in a big way, especially by giving me the chance to travel to different places. One of my proudest moments was attending the 2019 World Games and winning a bronze medal.

I work at Costco in Maintenance, and I’m genuinely honoured to be heading to Medicine Hat for the first time in my life as part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Spencer, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved after being told about it by a community member, Aimee Burtch, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 7 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet a lot of new friends, have fun, and travel to new places.

One of my proudest moments was winning a gold, a silver, and two bronze medals in Waterloo.

I stay active through swimming and basketball.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am proud of myself.

My advice? Don’t give up and have fun.

Hi! I’m Stefanie, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my parents, and I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 17 years.

The first time I tried Special Olympics, I felt so welcome. The coaches and athletes made me feel included — and they still do.

One of my proudest moments was when we won Provincials in Brantford, and a few days later my dad passed away.

Being part of Team Ontario and going to Medicine Hat is a life-long dream with my friends.

I stay active in my community through the food bank, fundraising, curling, bowling, and helping seniors.

My advice? Don’t be afraid to try new things and never give up. Keep going.

Hi! I’m Stephenie, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I wanted to find something to do, so I looked on the internet and found Special Olympics. I’ve now been involved for 15 years.

Special Olympics has made me stronger as a person.

One of my proudest moments was making my third Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — to be part of a team and represent my province on a big stage.

My advice? Work hard and have fun.

Hi! I’m Steve, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My dad helped me get involved in Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 36 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends.

One of my proudest moments is being proud to be on Team Ontario.

I have previously participated at National or World Games.

I stay active by helping others.

Being part of Team Ontario means trying to go to the World Games.

My advice? Help others to become good swimmers.

Hi! I’m Sydney, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved when my special education teacher in public school introduced me to Special Olympics — and I’ve now been part of it for 12 years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made lots of friends and grown as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was winning all of my races at the Provincial Games for swimming.

I also competed in downhill skiing at Nationals in Thunder Bay.

I’ve helped with fundraisers in my community and love staying involved.

My advice? Don’t be nervous. Do your best — and enjoy all the experience!

Hi! I’m Tammi, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first joined Special Olympics in Stratford and have now been involved for 25 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life by helping me grow and be part of something meaningful. Bocce and bowling are my favourite sports, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

Being part of Team Ontario means working hard and representing my community with pride.

My advice? Do your best, listen to your coaches, and have fun.

Hi! I’m Taylor, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a police officer encouraged me to join, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 25 years.

Special Olympics has helped me feel more confident and connected. One of my biggest achievements was winning Provincials at Laurier and qualifying for Nationals. I’ve also competed at the Summer National Games before.

I work at Longo’s in Guelph in Customer Service and help with fundraising efforts in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me.

My advice? Be a good teammate — and have fun.

Hi! I’m Tessa, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through 5-pin bowling, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 24 years.

Special Olympics has given me lots of opportunities to meet new people, make friends, travel to different places, build my confidence, and try new things.

One of my proudest moments was winning my first World Games gold medal in women’s 9-hole golf in Los Angeles.

I have participated in World Games Golf in Los Angeles and Abu Dhabi, National Games Golf in Vancouver and Antigonish, NS, and Speedskating at National Games in Calgary.

I stay active through the Local Athlete Leadership Council, Motionball events, ushering for the Niagara IceDogs and Performing Arts Centre, and the Brock University SNAP program.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of a team with other Ontario athletes and friends from St. Catharines.

My advice? Have lots of fun and get involved in as many activities as possible.

Hi! I’m Tessa, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved in soccer, and that started my Special Olympics journey 10 years ago.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve met new friends and coaches and improved my skills. One of my proudest moments was winning four medals at the Provincial Spring Games.

I work at Parks Canada in the summer as a lock operator on the Trent-Severn Waterway and stay active on the swim team and women’s soccer team.

Being part of Team Ontario is something I never thought would happen — and I’m so proud of it.

My advice? One small step to improve every day makes you stronger over time.

Hi! I’m Thomas, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved when a letter came in the mail, which helped me get started.

Special Olympics has helped me become more of a team player, and I’ve made a lot of good friends.

One of my proudest moments was making it to Nationals.

I work at an independent tree cutting business — I’m part of the clean-up crew.

I want to get more involved in my Special Olympics community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot, and I get to learn a lot of new things.

My advice? Always do your best and never give up, no matter how hard it gets.

Hi! I’m Timothy, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved in 1992 with 5-pin bowling and have now been part of Special Olympics for 32 years.

Special Olympics has helped me speak more and become an ambassador for Special Olympics.

One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals. I have participated in Nationals in Halifax, Ottawa, and St. Albert.

I work in Belleville as a Legion custodian, and I help coach other golfers at practices.

Being part of Team Ontario means just going and trying my best.

My advice? Just enjoy yourself and have fun.

Hi! I’m Timofey, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first joined Special Olympics because I was looking for a meaningful physical activity, and I’ve now been involved for 8 years.

Special Olympics provides me with strong social connections and opportunities to grow. One of my biggest achievements was winning silver in competition.

Being part of Team Ontario means recognition for the hard work I’ve put in over the years.

My advice? Have fun and always do your best.

Hi! I’m Tin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved with Special Olympics 11 years ago and have been part of the LaSalle-Windsor community ever since.

Special Olympics has helped me maintain my fitness and stay active. One of my biggest sport achievements has been reaching higher levels of competition in swimming.

I stay active within my local Special Olympics program and enjoy being involved whenever I can.

Being part of Team Ontario means working hard and representing my community with pride.

My advice? Keep working hard and stay focused on your goals.

Hi! I’m Christina, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I thought I was volunteering for one afternoon of curling — and 13 years later, I’m now a coach for curling and golf and still going strong.

Special Olympics has impacted my life for the better — the athletes inspire me every day.

One of my proudest moments has been caddying for Lori Russell and coaching the Milton Flying Eagles.

I am the Manager for the Special Olympics Milton Flying Eagles Curling Club.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very proud to be part of this community of extraordinary people.

My advice? Remember this experience!

Hi! I’m Tyrina, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! It all started with Special Olympics bowling, and I’ve now been involved for nine years.

Before Special Olympics, I mostly kept to myself — but being involved has helped me grow, meet people, and find confidence. One of my proudest moments is competing in track and field, especially the 400 metre.

I work as a grocery clerk and push carts on weekends, staying active both at work and in sport.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — especially at 27, seeing others my age pursuing their goals reminds me that I belong here too.

My advice? Only compete against yourself — and make yourself proud.

Hi! I’m Vanessa, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I started in Rhythmic Gymnastics and later switched to Tenpin, and I’ve now been involved for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make so many good friends and grow as a person. One of my proudest moments was participating in the Provincial Games and working my way toward Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’ll get to make even more friends and teammates.

My advice? Just do your best — and enjoy it.

Hi! I’m Victoria, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I started our local club 26 years ago because my son wanted to play sports, and I’ve now been involved for 26 years.

I coach 8 sports and would not even imagine not being involved.

One of my proudest moments was being a swim coach at World Games.

I am active as a community coordinator, coach, and fundraiser.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel privileged to go, and I enjoy the joy of the athletes’ accomplishments.

My advice? Enjoy, laugh, have fun, and do your best you can.

Hi! I’m Victoria, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. A friend invited me out for tryouts, and I made it — and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 11 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new friends, helped me not be so shy, and shown me there is no judgement.

One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals in 2018 and bringing home my first gold medal for swimming. I participated in Swimming at Nationals in 2018.

I stay active through volleyball and an adult church group.

Being part of Team Ontario is a great honor, and I’ve never been out there before — it’s a great opportunity.

My advice? Helping others.

Hi! I’m Vincent, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I was introduced by Stan Smith to be part of the Milton golf team, and I’ve now been involved for three years.

Special Olympics is the most fulfilling experience I have ever participated in.

One of my proudest moments was being a 3× All American at Penn State University and a professional boxer.

I work as a boxing coach and mentor, and I am active as a caddie.

Being part of Team Ontario would be an amazing experience in my life.

My advice? Have fun and show good sportsmanship.

Hi! I’m Vincent, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved when I came to live with my sister, who is a coach — and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends and get involved in many activities. One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Bocce Provincials and a silver medal in 5-pin Bowling.

Being part of Team Ontario means dedicating myself for many months to prepare and compete at my best.

My advice? Treat everybody with respect if you expect to be treated with respect.

Hi! I’m Wayne, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my support worker and have now been part of Special Olympics for five years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made new friends and improved my skills. My biggest achievement so far has been making it to Provincials.

I help out with fundraising and even participated in the Polar Plunge last year.

I’m very excited to attend the National Games in Medicine Hat.

My advice? Stay active, walk lots, stay hydrated, and take care of yourself.

Hi! I’m William, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I first got involved through Community Living in Tillsonburg, and Special Olympics has become a special part of my life.

I’ve competed at Nationals before in 2018 for Bocce, and now I’m proud to represent my community again — this time in Golf. One of my proudest moments has been competing at Nationals and continuing to grow in sport.

I work in Employment Services making pallets and try to be present at all Special Olympics activities in my community.

My advice? Practice hard and have fun — it isn’t just about winning.

Hi! I’m Yanhong, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Grade 5 at Sacred Heart School, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics keeps me busy and active, and I’ve built many friendships along the way. One of my proudest moments was going to Thunder Bay for Nationals in Snowshoeing. I was also part of Team Ontario’s snowshoeing team in 2020.

I work three mornings a week at Sobeys in Amherstburg and help with fundraisers like the Torch Run and Polar Plunge.

I’m very proud of myself and excited to represent Team Ontario.

My advice? Do your best — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Zoe, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a parents’ program for people who have disabilities and have now been part of Special Olympics for 25 years.

Special Olympics has helped me live a healthy and active lifestyle and accomplish many different goals.

One of my proudest moments was making Team Canada for the Alpine Ski Team and coming home as a bronze medalist in GS. I have previously participated in 2010 Swimming, 2012 Alpine Skiing, and 2018 Swimming.

I help with Motionball events, 24-hour ski fundraising, and Torch Runs.

Being part of Team Ontario means representing my province means a lot to me, doing the sport I love — swimming — and making Team Ontario proud.

My advice? Achieve your goals, perform the best you can, meet new people, make friendships across Canada, and have fun in your sport of swimming.

Hi! I’m Andrew, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I was one of the first participants in London’s Special Olympics program, and I’ve now been involved for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me build friendships and grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was going to the Provincial Games in the summer of 2025, where I brought home three gold medals.

Being part of Team Ontario brings me excitement, and I’m very proud to represent my community.

I stay active by participating in the bowl-a-thon each year and supporting events whenever I can.

My advice? Do your best and try hard.

Hi! I’m Ashley, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a family friend started Special Olympics swimming, and I’ve now been part of the program for 12 years.

Special Olympics has greatly impacted my life and helped me grow in confidence. One of my proudest moments was going to the Special Olympics National Games.

I work at a daycare as a supply educator and helper.

Being part of Team Ontario means the world to me — I get to represent Ontario and show what I can do.

My advice? You can do anything if you put your mind to it.

Hi! I’m Brandon, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a family friend told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the program for 18 years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made many friends and learned important skills. One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals for Basketball in the past and continuing to grow in sport.

I work at a gym in Georgetown where I help clean and support members. I also help with bake sales and puck toss fundraisers.

I’m very excited to attend Nationals and represent Team Ontario.

My advice? Work hard, train hard, eat healthy — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Brittney, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Athletics. I first got involved when a friend asked me to join the swimming team, knowing I used to compete, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

One of my proudest moments was being chosen to represent my community and province as a coach for the National Games.

I stay active by coaching two sports and volunteering at events along with playing my own sports throughout the year.

Being part of Team Ontario means being able to watch my athletes compete at this level makes me so proud.

My advice? Believe in yourself and work hard. Have confidence in your skills and celebrate your efforts and your teammates as well.

Hi! I’m Brooklyn, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved after a family friend told us about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for eight years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new people and be part of something special. One of my proudest moments was winning three gold medals and one silver at Provincials.

I stay active in my community by helping make Special Olympics donuts and supporting local events.

I’m excited and ready to have fun at Nationals!

My advice? Do your best and have fun!

Hi! I’m Chris, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I got involved through our City Councillor after volunteering as an election scrutineer — he asked why I wasn’t in Special Olympics… and a few sports later, here I am headed to Nationals!

Special Olympics has been amazing for me, especially after moving to Timmins four years ago — it helped me meet so many people in the community, from athletes to coaches and trainers, and honestly, without it I think things would have been pretty lonely.

One of my proudest moments was at Provincials, where I won two gold medals and a bronze across three athletics competitions — and coming home to Timmins with gold medals was such a powerful feeling (even making the front page of the local newspaper!).

Being part of Team Ontario and going to Medicine Hat feels like the next logical step toward an even bigger goal — and I’m going to do my best.

My advice? Practice, stay active, and do your best — all members are already winners!

Hi! I’m Emma, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first found Special Olympics through a website, and I’ve now been involved for four years.

Special Olympics has been a joy in my life. Making it to the National Games is a highlight for me, and it means a lot — especially knowing how proud my family is.

I stay active by participating as an athlete and helping with fundraising events like Tim Hortons and Torch Runs.

My advice? Try hard, and you’ll get to do exciting events!

Hi! I’m Garreth, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Athletics! I began coaching with the Brantford Special Olympics program five years ago and have been passionate about it ever since.

Special Olympics has had a tremendous impact on my life. One of my proudest moments in sport was coaching athletes and seeing them reach their goals.

Being part of Team Ontario and attending Nationals means continuing to support athletes at the highest level.

I stay active in my community by being involved in fundraising and local initiatives.

My advice? Keep working hard — your dedication matters.

Hi! I’m Jessica, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! My mom found a program in our community after seeing it on TV, and that’s how my 29-year journey with Special Olympics began.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends and build confidence. One of my proudest moments was making Team Ontario for Athletics at the last National Games.

I’ve also competed at National Games in St. Albert, Alberta for Speed Skating and have participated in other National competitions as well.

I work as a bakery clerk at Metro and stay active by helping with fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’m lucky enough to represent Ontario again.

My advice? Worry about what you can control — like your training — and give it your best.

Hi! I’m Karim, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved through friends, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

I’ve competed at Provincials twice and have won two gold medals and one silver — moments I’m really proud of.

I’m active in my community through leadership roles, and I also work in a government advisor role where I help communicate what people want and need.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very happy.

My advice? Put your game face on and give it your best.

Hi! I’m Kealyn, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first learned about the Halton Hills rhythmic gymnastics program, and that’s where my Special Olympics journey began 10 years ago.

Special Olympics has been one of the most transformative parts of my life. One of my proudest moments has been representing my community and earning my place on Team Ontario.

I work at Lunchbox Café and Catering in Milton and stay active within my Special Olympics community whenever I can.

Being part of Team Ontario is an incredible honour.

My advice? Give your best effort and believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Kimberly, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first became interested in sport after watching Rachel Homan win juniors in curling — and that inspired me to get involved.

Special Olympics is part of my daily balance and the foundation of my active lifestyle. One of my proudest moments was winning in curling at the 2024 Calgary Winter Games.

I stay active by participating in local fundraising activities.

Being part of Team Ontario has taught me that I’m part of a team — not just an individual.

My advice? Learn to cooperate and support one another.

Hi! I’m Kyle, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved when my friend in high school was doing 5-pin bowling, and I decided to join too — that was 23 years ago.

Special Olympics has given me so many friends and incredible opportunities. One of my proudest moments was going to the National Games in London, Ontario for Track and Field.

I work as a cleaner at a machine shop called Barrie Welding and have spoken about Special Olympics at golf tournaments to help promote the program.

Being part of Team Ontario is very special to me.

My advice? Train hard and don’t miss practices — it makes all the difference.

Hi! I’m Meghan, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first became involved in swimming when I was younger and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has given me community and independence. One of my proudest moments was running my first 3000-metre race in 2013 — a big accomplishment for me!

I’ve also competed at Nationals in track in Nova Scotia.

I stay active as an engaged member of my team and volunteer whenever I can.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel proud to represent Ontario on a national stage.

My advice? Anything is possible if you believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Nadine, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first started in 5-pin bowling during COVID and have now been involved with Special Olympics for five years.

Special Olympics has helped me become more active and involved in my community. One of my proudest moments was making it to Nationals for Figure Skating in 2024 in Calgary.

I work with the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board and help with fundraising initiatives in my community.

I’m proud to represent Team Ontario and give it my all.

My advice? Work hard, train hard, and believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Tyrina, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! It all started with Special Olympics bowling, and I’ve now been involved for nine years.

Before Special Olympics, I mostly kept to myself — but being involved has helped me grow, meet people, and find confidence. One of my proudest moments is competing in track and field, especially the 400 metre.

I work as a grocery clerk and push carts on weekends, staying active both at work and in sport.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — especially at 27, seeing others my age pursuing their goals reminds me that I belong here too.

My advice? Only compete against yourself — and make yourself proud.

Hi! I’m Adam, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a family friend introduced us to Special Olympics — and I’ve now been part of the program for 18 years.

Special Olympics gives me the chance to stay active in sports and be part of a team. One of my proudest moments was winning Gold at Provincials.

I’m proud to play for Team Ontario and represent my community at Nationals.

My advice? Have fun — and do your best!

Hi! I’m Andrew, and I coach Basketball for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a friend and jumped in to help with basketball — and it’s been nothing but positive for me ever since.

One of my proudest moments was winning Provincials, and being part of Team Ontario (and heading to Medicine Hat) is truly an honour.

I work as a Data Scientist, and I stay active in my Special Olympics community through coaching.

My advice? Growth through consistency — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Andrew, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved with Special Olympics when a friend from school invited me to watch a floorball game — and I’ve been part of the community ever since.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends and given me opportunities to grow. One of my biggest achievements was winning Gold at the 2025 Provincial Games in Soccer. Being selected for Team Ontario shows me that the hard work is paying off.

I work at Pur & Simple and Wildfire Catering by Andrew, and I stay involved by peer coaching and mentoring new athletes.

My advice? Enjoy the moment!

Hi! I’m Austin, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my teacher, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 18 years.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to be with my friends and meet new people. One of my proudest achievements has been competing in Basketball, including traveling to Nova Scotia for Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new athletes and coaches and representing my community.

My advice? Just have fun and enjoy your time.

Hi! I’m Blair, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through an old friend, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 13 years.

Special Olympics has had a full impact on my life. One of my proudest moments was competing in my first World Games in 2023 and winning silver. I’ve also attended Nationals twice before.

Being part of Team Ontario means EVERYTHING to me — it means I’ve worked hard and achieved something truly special.

I stay active by competing in other sports within my community.

My advice? Just be yourself. Train hard and believe in what you can do.

Hi! I’m Francis, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my community, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends and grow through sport. One of my biggest achievements was playing at the Provincial level.

Being part of Team Ontario and attending Nationals is something I’m proud of.

My advice? Be active — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Gino, and I coach Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved as a translator while helping someone sign up — and that led to 16 years with Special Olympics.

Before Special Olympics, my family felt very alone. Now, we’re part of something bigger. One of my proudest moments was winning our first gold medal at Provincials in 2008.

I own my own business selling and repairing small engines and stay active by serving on the Guelph Community Council.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of something bigger than yourself.

My advice? Be kind. Be strong. Be humble — and have fun.

Hi! I’m Jackie, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Basketball! Volunteering with Special Olympics was on my bucket list after I retired from teaching, and I’ve now been involved for four years.

Special Olympics has introduced me to many new friends, and volunteering has been incredibly rewarding. One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Ontario Provincials in Basketball with our team.

I’m a retired elementary school teacher and now serve as Head Coach of D+ Basketball in London.

Being part of Team Ontario is so exciting — I love watching these athletes succeed.

My advice? Look after yourself so you can compete at your best.

Hi! I’m Jennifer, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my high school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 23 years.

Special Olympics has helped me become less shy and make lots of friends. One of my biggest achievements was winning a gold medal for bowling at the World Games in Dubai. I’ve also competed at Nationals in PEI for bowling.

I work at Arc Industries as a cleaner and stay active through fundraisers and volunteering with new athletes.

Being part of Team Ontario means we worked hard as a team to get to Nationals.

My advice? Do your best — and have fun.

Hi! I’m Joshua, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my gym teacher, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for six years.

Special Olympics has helped me grow as a person and build confidence. One of my proudest moments was hitting a buzzer-beater shot in basketball — a moment I’ll never forget.

Being part of Team Ontario feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy every moment.

Hi! I’m Letisha, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! My brother started in Special Olympics first, and I joined five years later — now I’ve been involved for 17 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends and be part of a strong team. One of my proudest moments was winning gold at the 2024 Provincial Games.

Being part of Team Ontario means I get to be with my team and hang out with my friends while competing at Nationals.

My advice? Have fun!

Hi! I’m Morgan, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when another Special Olympics athlete told me about the program, and I’ve now been part of it for 22 years.

Special Olympics has made me more comfortable and confident. One of my proudest achievements was competing at the 2018 National Games in Nova Scotia for Basketball.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of a team and competing against others at a high level.

My advice? Work hard and enjoy the games.

Hi! I’m Shayne, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through school programs and have now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make many friends from different schools and communities. One of my proudest moments has been participating in tournaments and competing with my team.

I work at Zehrs grocery store pushing carts and helping customers.

I’m so happy and excited to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Good luck — and stay positive!

Hi! I’m Sheldon, and I’m proud to represent Team Ontario in Basketball. I first got involved when my gym teacher in elementary school told me about Special Olympics basketball — and I’ve been in it ever since.

Special Olympics has impacted my life in a big way, especially by giving me the chance to travel to different places. One of my proudest moments was attending the 2019 World Games and winning a bronze medal.

I work at Costco in Maintenance, and I’m genuinely honoured to be heading to Medicine Hat for the first time in my life as part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Taylor, and I compete in Basketball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a police officer encouraged me to join, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 25 years.

Special Olympics has helped me feel more confident and connected. One of my biggest achievements was winning Provincials at Laurier and qualifying for Nationals. I’ve also competed at the Summer National Games before.

I work at Longo’s in Guelph in Customer Service and help with fundraising efforts in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me.

My advice? Be a good teammate — and have fun.

Hi! I’m Alex, and I coach Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved when my son Justin was 10 years old and there were limited opportunities — that’s how our Special Olympics journey began.

For 15 years, Special Olympics has helped shape my life. It has made me a better person and taught me perseverance. One of my proudest moments was seeing my son make it to the 2017 Provincial Games.

I work for the City of Vaughan as a Senior… and I stay active in my community by participating in York South Council meetings.

My advice? Be proud to be a Team Ontario Squad member — you’ve earned it!

Hi! I’m Allyson, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first joined a Special Olympics swimming program in Ottawa, and I’ve now been involved for 32 years.

Special Olympics has introduced me to so many incredible athletes and volunteers. One of my proudest achievements was winning gold in Bocce at the National Games in Sudbury in 1998.

I’ve worked at Metro bagging groceries and have served as an Athlete Representative for Arnprior.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel successful, proud, and very excited.

My advice? Know what you can control — and work hard at that.

Hi! I’m Amber, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved in the year 2000 when my friend Darlene encouraged me to try Special Olympics — and I’ve now been part of it for 25 years.

Special Olympics gave me the chance to experience sports in a way I never did as a child. I’ve competed at National Games before in London, Ontario in Track and Field.

I work as a house cleaner with Community Living and attend fundraisers at Sobeys and Tim Hortons.

Being part of Team Ontario means being accepted for who I am.

My advice? Just have fun — laugh, learn, and enjoy your time.

Hi! I’m Amber, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I started in high school around 2010, and I’ve now been involved for 15 years.

Special Olympics has been part of my life through watching it on TV and being inspired by my family. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal at Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me because I’ve worked hard to get here.

My advice? Just have fun and enjoy everything you do in your sport.

Hi! I’m Carly, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved because a friend was involved in bowling and encouraged me to join.

Special Olympics has allowed me to travel to new places and build friendships. I’ve competed at Nationals before in PEI in 2018 for 5-pin bowling.

One of my proudest achievements was winning the Principal’s Award in Grade 8 for outstanding involvement.

I help with promotional evenings and building partnerships in my community.

Being selected for Team Ontario is a huge honour.

My advice? Enjoy yourself — don’t sweat the small stuff — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Catherine, and I coach Bocce for Team Ontario! I got involved by offering my professional services, and it grew into 19 years with Special Olympics.

Special Olympics has broadened my life in meaningful ways. One of my proudest memories was at Provincials last year, watching athletes succeed through hard work.

I’ve coached many sports over the years and stay deeply involved in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of something greater than yourself.

My advice? There’s a long time between selection and competition — stay focused and enjoy the journey.

Hi! I’m Claire, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first started in soccer, track and field, and other sports before focusing on bocce.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve participated in many sports and learned so much along the way. One of my proudest achievements was winning a silver medal in bocce.

I’m also active in my community through Best Buddies and as a member of my local programs.

I’m excited to represent Ontario at Nationals.

My advice? Be kind to others, be friendly, and listen to your coaches.

Hi! I’m Grant, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I started in Special Olympics when I was about 7 or 8 years old in downhill skiing, and I’ve now been involved for 21 years.

Special Olympics has kept me healthy and is where many of my friendships have grown. One of my proudest moments was competing at Nationals in Thunder Bay in 2020 for cross-country skiing.

Representing Team Ontario is wonderful, and I’m proud to compete for my province.

My advice? Keep trying and don’t stop.

Hi! I’m Jackie, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I’ve been involved with Special Olympics for 13 years after first getting started thanks to my friend Rosie.

Special Olympics has helped me make more friends and grow my confidence. One of my proudest sport moments was winning gold in Brampton — that felt amazing! I’ve also competed at Nationals before in curling in Corner Brook, Newfoundland.

I work at McDonald’s on counter and drive-thru, and I stay active in my community by volunteering at Special Olympics events.

My advice? Just go out and do your best!

Hi! I’m James, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved doing bowling with my sister in Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the program for eight years.

Special Olympics has given me a place where I can compete with others and feel supported. One of my proudest moments was attending Provincial Games and being named to Team Ontario.

I work at a restaurant called The Mill in Tillsonburg and stay active by participating in Torch Runs and Special Olympics donut events.

Being part of Team Ontario means being a representative and role model for others.

My advice? Always keep yourself surrounded by people who support and encourage you.

Hi! I’m Kayla, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! Special Olympics was suggested to me by my educational assistant, and I’ve now been involved for 15 years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve learned how to live a healthy lifestyle and gained valuable experiences. I attended the 2014 National Games in Vancouver for Swimming, and now I’m proud to compete again.

I work at Marathon High School as a custodian and attend community meetings to stay involved.

Being part of Team Ontario means everything to me.

My advice? Do your very best at whatever you are doing.

Hi! I’m Kristen, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved playing T-ball, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 21 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life by helping me meet new friends and grow as an athlete. One of my biggest achievements was being asked to be an Athlete Ambassador.

I’ve participated at National Games before, including in Vancouver.

I work at Sobeys and have been there for over six years. I’m also active in my community as an Athlete Ambassador.

Being part of Team Ontario means representing something bigger than myself.

My advice? I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 21 years — stay committed, work hard, and enjoy the journey.

Hi! I’m Luke, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I started in the Active Start and FUNdamentals programs and have now been involved for 13 years.

Special Olympics helps me stay fit and keep improving. One of my proudest moments was going to Provincials.

I stay active by playing sports and sometimes helping my coach, Brian.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel proud.

My advice? Listen to your coaches and keep learning.

Hi! I’m Luke, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved through a Down Syndrome Association group that introduced me to Special Olympics — and I’ve now been part of the community for 25 years.

Special Olympics has given me great opportunities to stay active and compete. One of my proudest moments was qualifying for Team Ontario and attending the Winter National Games in Calgary in 2024 for Bowling.

I work at Sobey’s in the produce department and help with initiatives like Smile Cookie fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me excited and proud. I love playing sports and representing my community.

My advice? Do your best, have fun, and be kind and encouraging to others.

Hi! I’m Ray, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my friends, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new friends and stay active. One of my proudest moments was going to Corner Brook, Newfoundland for skiing at Nationals — that was an incredible experience.

I also support my community by helping with fundraisers, including selling programs at hockey games.

My advice? Have fun and meet new friends — that’s what it’s all about!

Hi! I’m Renee, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Special Olympics when I started swimming at nine years old, and I’ve now been part of the movement for 25 years.

I love sports, and Special Olympics has helped keep me active while building friendships along the way. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in bocce at the Ontario Provincials.

I work at the Jarrett Value Centre Thrift Store and participate in community fundraising events.

Being part of Team Ontario gives me the opportunity to compete at a higher level, and I’m proud to represent my community.

My advice? Work hard and be proud — you’re already a champion.

Hi! I’m Robert, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a coach from Special Olympics Brampton gymnastics introduced me to the program.

Special Olympics has given me the opportunity to get involved in the community and stay active. One of my proudest achievements was making it to Provincials and then qualifying further.

Being part of Team Ontario is a very proud moment for me.

My advice? Get involved in your community and be proud to represent your team.

Hi! I’m Sarah, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Bocce! I was introduced to Special Olympics 12 years ago through the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Coaching in Special Olympics has become so much more than just teaching sport — it’s about learning from athletes and building community. One of my proudest moments has been watching athletes grow and succeed through their dedication.

Being part of Team Ontario is an absolute honour.

My advice? Train hard, do your best, and be proud and humble in everything you do.

Hi! I’m Sheila, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Bocce! I joined the Milton Special Olympics Facebook group and quickly became involved — I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for six years.

After volunteering with golf, I saw firsthand the impact of the program and became even more committed. One of my proudest moments as a coach has been attending Provincials with athletes.

I’m active as a Golf Team Manager and Curling Coach in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario is a continuation of my love for Special Olympics.

My advice? Enjoy the time leading up to the Games and do your best.

Hi! I’m Tammi, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first joined Special Olympics in Stratford and have now been involved for 25 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life by helping me grow and be part of something meaningful. Bocce and bowling are my favourite sports, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

Being part of Team Ontario means working hard and representing my community with pride.

My advice? Do your best, listen to your coaches, and have fun.

Hi! I’m Vincent, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved when I came to live with my sister, who is a coach — and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends and get involved in many activities. One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Bocce Provincials and a silver medal in 5-pin Bowling.

Being part of Team Ontario means dedicating myself for many months to prepare and compete at my best.

My advice? Treat everybody with respect if you expect to be treated with respect.

Hi! I’m Wayne, and I compete in Bocce for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my support worker and have now been part of Special Olympics for five years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made new friends and improved my skills. My biggest achievement so far has been making it to Provincials.

I help out with fundraising and even participated in the Polar Plunge last year.

I’m very excited to attend the National Games in Medicine Hat.

My advice? Stay active, walk lots, stay hydrated, and take care of yourself.

Hi! I’m Carolyn, and I’m proud to be part of Team Ontario in Golf! I first got involved when my son was part of Community Living and they suggested Special Olympics — and it’s been part of my life for 15 years.

Special Olympics has given me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone and be part of something truly meaningful. One of my proudest moments was when my son was chosen for bowling at Nationals in 2014.

I stay active by fundraising and serving on planning committees in my community.

I’m so proud to be attending Nationals with my golfer this year.

My advice? Congratulations on making Team Ontario — enjoy every moment of the experience!

Hi! I’m Chad, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved by starting to coach basketball and bowling, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 26 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet and connect with a great group of individuals from across the province.

One of my proudest moments was being asked to join Team Ontario.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’ll be able to join a great team and meet and make friends from all across Canada.

My advice? Live by and follow the Special Olympics Oath and motto.

Hi! I’m Dave, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when my men’s curling team was asked to compete against a Special Olympics team to get them ready for competitions. That worked out well, and I was invited to coach. I was then invited to coach golf.

Special Olympics has made me cognizant of the importance of speaking with athletes and listening to athletes. This has carried over to other areas of my life.

One of my proudest moments was having an athlete with autism put his arm around me while we were curling. His mother cried — and so did I.

I stay active through fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means I can help the athlete I coach represent his Tyendinaga Mohawk community in Red Deer.

My advice?

Always be an ambassador for Special Olympics. People will listen to an athlete more than they will listen to a coach.

Hi! I’m Dylan, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved in high school and have now been part of Special Olympics for eight years.

Special Olympics has helped me become a team leader and support my teammates and others.

One of my proudest moments was making a AAA baseball team and making Nationals for golf.

Being part of Team Ontario is a privilege — it’s my first time going to Nationals.

My advice? Enjoy the moment of being part of Team Ontario.

Hi! I’m Harold, and I caddie in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through my daughter being involved with swimming, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics has made me more aware of the need to help in any way I can in the sports I’m involved in. I’ve always had the desire to volunteer in my community.

One of my proudest moments is being with my athletes on their journey and being part of their successes.

I am active as a coach in our golf program and sometimes help fundraise.

Being part of Team Ontario means all the years of hard work have paid off.

My advice? Enjoy the moments that you're about to be in.

Hi! I’m Jacob, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through friends and school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has given me wonderful new experiences.

One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in floor hockey at the National Winter Games.

I have been recognized as Athlete of the Year and made appearances at different events.

Being part of Team Ontario means being able to compete in another sport and meet new people.

My advice? Not applicable.

Hi! I’m Jacqueline, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved through a friend whose son was in Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 9 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet lots of other parents with kids similar to mine and makes me feel part of a community.

One of my proudest moments was when my son won gold in D1.

I stay active through fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means my son can fulfill his dream to be there.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy the friends you meet.

Hi! I’m Jamie, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved through a friend and have now been part of Special Olympics for three years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends and enjoy teaching the athletes.

One of my proudest moments was breaking par.

I stay active through coaching.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am proud of our athletes and want to help them succeed.

My advice? Have FUN.

Hi! I’m Jason, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through playing sports and have now been part of Special Olympics for 11 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends.

One of my proudest moments was going to the National Games.

I stay active by playing basketball and curling in the winter.

Being part of Team Ontario is exciting because this will be my first time at a National Games.

My advice? Keep up the hard work.

Hi! I’m Krystian, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved when a friend gave me the name of the coach for the golf team, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 9 years.

Special Olympics has helped me with my confidence, and I’ve met lots of friends.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Provincials.

I stay active through fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’ve been hoping to compete at Nationals for a long time, and I’m very excited.

My advice? Do your best and have fun.

Hi! I’m Logan, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved through coaching golf and the Law Enforcement Torch Run, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has given me great memories and lifetime friendships.

One of my proudest moments has been helping coach golf.

I stay active through LETR and coaching golf and basketball.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me excited and proud.

My advice? Never give up.

Hi! I’m Lorinne, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I started in Track and Field in Oakville when I was 25, and then started golfing when I was 40 in Florida. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 30 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends and enjoy traveling to different places.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold at the Brantford Provincial Games.

I participated in Golf at the World Games in Los Angeles in 2015 and in Nationals in Calgary in 2024 for Floor Hockey.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting and making new friends and competing as part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Keep your eye on the ball and enjoy yourself!

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I was asked to participate, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has been a great life experience.

One of my proudest moments was making two National golf teams. I previously participated in Golf at Nationals in 2018 in Antigonish.

Being part of Team Ontario means mission accomplished.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Mike, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when I was asked to volunteer.

Special Olympics has impacted my life because I love to coach smiling athletes.

One of my proudest moments was being a 10-time Ontario postal curling champion. I also participated in 2018 Antigonish.

Being part of Team Ontario means mission accomplished.

My advice? HAVE fun.

Hi! I’m Mike, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when Tess started 5-pin bowling, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 24 years.

Special Olympics has taught me many lessons about inclusion, diversity, and the ability of sport to change people’s lives and build their confidence and self-esteem.

One of my proudest moments was caddying for Tess in Abu Dhabi and witnessing her two holes in one.

I’m active in my community as a member of the local community council, coach of the local SO golf program, and mentor to the local athlete leadership council. Our golf team also raised $5,700 through the Golf Ontario 1000 Ball Challenge.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’m looking forward to being part of the team and sharing in their journey.

My advice? Believe in yourself and don’t forget to have fun!

Hi! I’m Mitch, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when my younger brother became a Special Olympics golfer and asked me to caddy his first tournament — and I’ve been riding his coattails ever since.

Each Special Olympics event you go to, and the many people you meet along the way, combine to impact every part of your life.

One of my proudest moments is watching my brother crush a drive or sink a 25-foot putt in front of a crowd — equal parts pride and “poop your pants” as a caddy.

I haven’t been very active yet in other roles, but I would like to discover ways I can be more helpful to the organization.

Being part of Team Ontario means I love seeing how proud and hyped the athletes are competing for their friends and for a shot at representing Canada.

My advice? Be yourself. Enjoy the competition while you're there.

Hi! I’m Natasha, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first applied to join Special Olympics Oakville golf, but a coach recommended Mississauga since the golfers were at a higher level. Later, while playing at the Ontario Adaptive Open, the coach from Hamilton Competitive Olympics golf approached me. The level was higher, and we played on real golf courses — which helped me improve my skills even more.

Special Olympics has allowed me to feel like I fit in. I used to feel like I didn’t belong or wasn’t good enough. Now I feel comfortable, and I’ve met golfers from around the world and made many new friends.

One of my biggest achievements was competing at the 2023 Berlin World Games for golf. I broke my ankle in February and had to work hard in physio. I wasn’t able to practice for months and was only cleared to play just before Berlin. The days were long and hot, and we weren’t allowed carts, so my ankle was sore and swollen. But I didn’t give up. I won a bronze medal, and I hope to go to another World Games and do even better.

I worked at Dearcroft Montessori School as a teacher’s helper and also walk dogs. I help Hamilton Special Olympics with fundraising events like hitting 1,000 golf balls, Sobey’s annual golf tournament, Bright Spot, Storm King Invitational events, and Tim Hortons Special Olympics donut campaigns.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot — I’ve worked very hard to earn my spot, and I want to show that if you put your mind and heart into the sport you love, you can achieve your goals.

My advice? It’s an honour to be part of this group. Have fun, be respectful, and always do your best to represent your sport and Ontario.

Hi! I’m Patricia, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved when I managed a floor hockey team for my son, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 25 years.

Special Olympics has made everything more aware of people with disabilities.

One of my proudest moments has been watching the athletes succeed.

I have previously participated as a Coach in 2012 Curling, Caddied in 2018 Golf, and was Head Coach in 2020 and 2024 Curling.

I stay active in my community through coaching, caddying, and community council involvement.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me proud to represent my province.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Peter, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I first got involved by taking my daughter to the practice range at a Special Olympics practice.

Special Olympics has given my daughter confidence not only in her golf abilities but also confidence in herself.

One of my proudest moments was when my daughter qualified for the Berlin World Games 2023 in Golf and competed against the best in the world. It was a fantastic experience and allowed her to grow as a person.

I work at Caldwell Banker Commercial Real Estate as a Realtor, focusing on purchase and sale of investment properties. I am also a Volunteer Coach at Special Olympics Hamilton Golf.

Being part of Team Ontario is another opportunity to meet new friends, be part of a close-knit team, and compete against the best Canada has to offer.

My advice?

Keep trying to do better each and every day. You are not competing against others — you are competing against yourself. Improve yourself every day. And remember to have fun and make friends along the way.

Hi! I’m Ray, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through softball, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 32 years.

Special Olympics has given me more confidence.

One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in golf at my first SONA in South Carolina.

I previously competed in 2012 Curling and 2014 Golf at Nationals.

I work at Rona as a front end loader, and besides being an athlete, I am also a volunteer softball coach.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me proud.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I was introduced to Special Olympics in high school, and I’ve now been involved for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me gain confidence and grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was taking home gold at the Provincial Games — and continuing to push myself forward.

I work as a supervisor at a line painting company and stay active by being part of my work’s social committee and participating in sports.

I’m so honoured to represent my community at Nationals.

My advice? Remember to have fun, try your best, be a good teammate — and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Scott, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I first got involved because I wanted to play baseball, so I joined softball — and that started my 23-year journey with Special Olympics.

Special Olympics has helped me stay active and build many friendships. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal for golf at Provincials. I’ve also won gold with my Floor Hockey team at the National Games.

I manage the carts at Food Basics and help with fundraising events in my community.

Representing Team Ontario at Nationals is a great honour.

My advice? Believe in yourself — and have fun.

Hi! I’m Shane, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I can’t remember how I first got involved, but I’ve made lots of new friends through Special Olympics.

One of my proudest moments has been being able to play.

Being part of Team Ontario means a hole lot.

My advice? Have fun and try your best.

Hi! I’m Tessa, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through 5-pin bowling, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 24 years.

Special Olympics has given me lots of opportunities to meet new people, make friends, travel to different places, build my confidence, and try new things.

One of my proudest moments was winning my first World Games gold medal in women’s 9-hole golf in Los Angeles.

I have participated in World Games Golf in Los Angeles and Abu Dhabi, National Games Golf in Vancouver and Antigonish, NS, and Speedskating at National Games in Calgary.

I stay active through the Local Athlete Leadership Council, Motionball events, ushering for the Niagara IceDogs and Performing Arts Centre, and the Brock University SNAP program.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of a team with other Ontario athletes and friends from St. Catharines.

My advice? Have lots of fun and get involved in as many activities as possible.

Hi! I’m Timothy, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved in 1992 with 5-pin bowling and have now been part of Special Olympics for 32 years.

Special Olympics has helped me speak more and become an ambassador for Special Olympics.

One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals. I have participated in Nationals in Halifax, Ottawa, and St. Albert.

I work in Belleville as a Legion custodian, and I help coach other golfers at practices.

Being part of Team Ontario means just going and trying my best.

My advice? Just enjoy yourself and have fun.

Hi! I’m Christina, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I thought I was volunteering for one afternoon of curling — and 13 years later, I’m now a coach for curling and golf and still going strong.

Special Olympics has impacted my life for the better — the athletes inspire me every day.

One of my proudest moments has been caddying for Lori Russell and coaching the Milton Flying Eagles.

I am the Manager for the Special Olympics Milton Flying Eagles Curling Club.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very proud to be part of this community of extraordinary people.

My advice? Remember this experience!

Hi! I’m Victoria, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I started our local club 26 years ago because my son wanted to play sports, and I’ve now been involved for 26 years.

I coach 8 sports and would not even imagine not being involved.

One of my proudest moments was being a swim coach at World Games.

I am active as a community coordinator, coach, and fundraiser.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel privileged to go, and I enjoy the joy of the athletes’ accomplishments.

My advice? Enjoy, laugh, have fun, and do your best you can.

Hi! I’m Vincent, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I was introduced by Stan Smith to be part of the Milton golf team, and I’ve now been involved for three years.

Special Olympics is the most fulfilling experience I have ever participated in.

One of my proudest moments was being a 3× All American at Penn State University and a professional boxer.

I work as a boxing coach and mentor, and I am active as a caddie.

Being part of Team Ontario would be an amazing experience in my life.

My advice? Have fun and show good sportsmanship.

Hi! I’m William, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I first got involved through Community Living in Tillsonburg, and Special Olympics has become a special part of my life.

I’ve competed at Nationals before in 2018 for Bocce, and now I’m proud to represent my community again — this time in Golf. One of my proudest moments has been competing at Nationals and continuing to grow in sport.

I work in Employment Services making pallets and try to be present at all Special Olympics activities in my community.

My advice? Practice hard and have fun — it isn’t just about winning.

Hi! I’m Alex, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. My dad signed me up, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for seven years.

Special Olympics gives me a chance to compete in competitions.

One of my proudest moments has been getting very strong.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very happy.

My advice? Get very strong!

Hi! I’m Andre, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a co-worker at my dad’s old workplace, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 19 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life — yes.

One of my proudest moments was deadlifting 501 pounds at the World Games in Abu Dhabi.

I have participated in 3 National Games — London, Ontario (2010), Vancouver, BC (2014), and Antigonish, NS (2018) — all in powerlifting. I have also competed at 2 World Games — Los Angeles, CA and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates — in powerlifting.

I stay active by participating in all six sports that I’m involved in.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot.

My advice? Stay committed to the sports that you love to do.

Hi! I’m Candace-Rose, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Powerlifting. I first got involved through my college program at Canadore College for Strength and Sports Conditioning, where volunteer opportunities allowed me to work with the North Bay Special Olympics team. I had also helped in the life skills program in high school, and I have loved every moment of being a Special Olympics coach ever since.

Special Olympics has given me the opportunity to build my leadership and communication skills, and I’ve made friendships in my home community that will last a lifetime.

One of my proudest moments was running my first unified powerlifting meet, where my Special Olympics athletes cheered everyone on and lifted some of the biggest weights at the meet. My personal biggest achievement as an athlete was benching 60 kg in competition.

I work as a Primary Care Paramedic at the City of Toronto and stay active through coaching and volunteering at events.

Being part of Team Ontario means reaching a level of respect and professionalism as a coach. It also means supporting familiar athletes and meeting new ones, and being part of another team.

My advice? Pick the weight up, put it down, don’t get hurt.

Hi! I’m Danny, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Powerlifting. I first got involved when I was asked to start the powerlifting program in Ottawa, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for seven years.

It has been an amazingly rewarding experience to support these athletes with something they love.

One of my proudest moments has been seeing my athletes get their medals.

I work in National Defence in drone procurement and engineering services contracting, and I volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society as Event Director for Relay for Life.

Being part of Team Ontario means the experience grows exponentially with the complexity of the Games — Nationals will be a new experience.

My advice? Continue to do your best!

Hi! I’m James, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved when I started playing floor hockey at 16 years old, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 23 years.

Special Olympics has changed everything for me.

One of my proudest moments was going to the World Games for Floor Hockey. I’ve competed in Nationals in Quebec City, Alberta, Corner Brook, and Calgary, and at the World Games in Idaho and Australia.

I work at the University bookstore and take part in the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario means everything to me.

My advice? Work hard and have fun.

Hi! I’m Jasmyn, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario! I first got involved through one of my teachers in grade school and have now been part of Special Olympics for 19 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make friends and compete in sports I love. One of my biggest achievements was being selected to attend the Canada Games.

I work as a Food Merchandiser at Shoppers and stay active through fundraisers, the Torch Run, and the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario shows that my hard work has paid off.

My advice? Set your sights on getting a medal in your sport — and go after it.

Hi! I’m Jason, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved at school and have now been part of Special Olympics for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet lots of people.

One of my proudest moments was going to Provincials in Kitchener for the first time and winning 3 gold medals.

I stay active by attending a Live and Learn program.

Being part of Team Ontario means I have trained hard.

My advice? Don’t get upset after your lift — try your best.

Hi! I’m Josee, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved by going to registration at fall sign-up and never looked back. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make a lot more friends, become a lot less shy, and be more outgoing.

One of my proudest moments was going to the World Games twice and bringing back medals for my country and hometown.

I have participated in London 2012 (National), Vancouver 2014, Nova Scotia 2018 (National), Dubai 2019, and Germany 2023.

I work in long-term care as a PSW and serve as a mentor for younger athletes.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot of dedication and work. It also means being part of a family.

My advice? You just have to believe you can do it.

Hi! I’m Marley, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first started in Special Olympics with five pin bowling — my mom put me in it to get more social.

Special Olympics has made me more confident and social and has kept me in shape.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold at the Berlin World Games and seeing how many Special Olympics athletes there are. My parents were proud of me, and pin trading was fun.

I previously competed in National Games for Cross Country Skiing.

I work full time at Tim Hortons, where I do cleaning, make coffee, and serve baked goods. I participate in fundraising, including the Torch Run and helping out at the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario means the world to me — I’m very excited and happy to show what I can do.

My advice? Keep working hard and training, and any athlete or coach can help at Nationals — go for it.

Hi! I’m Matthew, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Powerlifting. I first got involved after attending a practice and knowing it was something I wanted to be part of. I also wanted to provide information and experience to aid the athletes I coach.

Special Olympics has had a huge impact on my life. Working a stressful job, it has helped me deal with negative stress and find happiness and joy in people.

One of my proudest moments has been being the Head Coach for Windsor Powerlifting and training two athletes who qualified for Nationals for the first time for our city.

I’m active as Head Coach for Powerlifting, raising money for Special Olympics, and participating in the Polar Plunge and Torch Run.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot of hard work and consistency paying off over countless hours of training. It’s a feeling of pride and accomplishment for me and my team.

My advice? Consistency and hard work are keys to success — even when you fail. Don’t look back, only forward.

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved through basketball and have now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make new friends.

One of my proudest moments was getting to go to the AUE.

I work at Sarang Kitchen, where I serve customers.

I tell people about Special Olympics Ontario in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am proud.

My advice? Have fun and be yourself.

Hi! I’m Nicole, and I’m proud to serve as Mission Staff for Team Ontario! I first got involved when I was asked to help start a new sport program — and that opportunity led to 15 years of involvement.

Special Olympics has shown me the true meaning of sport and teamwork. One of my proudest moments has been seeing multiple athletes from the Speed Skating program reach major competitions.

I’m active as Team Manager for London Speed Skating and at the provincial level. Being part of Team Ontario means the world to me.

My advice? Work hard, try your best, and enjoy every minute!

Hi! I’m Thomas, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved when a letter came in the mail, which helped me get started.

Special Olympics has helped me become more of a team player, and I’ve made a lot of good friends.

One of my proudest moments was making it to Nationals.

I work at an independent tree cutting business — I’m part of the clean-up crew.

I want to get more involved in my Special Olympics community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot, and I get to learn a lot of new things.

My advice? Always do your best and never give up, no matter how hard it gets.

Hi! I’m Allison, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. I first got involved because I kept saying I wanted to do 10-pin bowling, and someone suggested I try Special Olympics — then other activities came along.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet people and connect with others.

One of my proudest moments was winning my bowling trophy. I am also proud of my medals for rhythmic gymnastics.

I attend fundraisers in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means I get to travel and meet new people and get a chance to go to Worlds.

My advice? Don’t get distracted and don’t overthink — have fun!

Hi! I’m Emily, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. I first got involved after being referred by a friend, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 13 years.

Special Olympics has given me more diversity in my life. One of my proudest moments was finally winning 1st place at Provincials.

I’ve previously participated at the 2018 National Games in Nova Scotia.

I volunteer at a seniors active learning centre and also work as a paid artistic gymnastics assistant coach. I’ve also participated in parades within my Special Olympics community.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very proud of myself.

My advice? If you feel nervous, that’s completely normal.

Hi! I’m Emily, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. I first got involved when my parents registered me after speaking with someone involved with Special Olympics.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet new people and travel.

One of my proudest moments was making the National Team for Rhythmic Gymnastics and traveling on the airplane with my friends.

I’ve competed at Nationals in Antigonish for Rhythmic Gymnastics.

I work at The Wise Owl Café, where I serve customers, and I’ve attended fundraisers with my team.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am a good teammate.

My advice? Leave the world a better place.

Hi! I’m Jamieson, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first joined the Halton Hills Waves Swimming Club and later expanded into rhythmic gymnastics.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made many new friends and learned new skills. One of my proudest moments was going to Provincials and being selected to attend Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario shows me that my hard work has paid off.

I enjoy helping out with fundraising whenever I can.

My advice? Keep working hard and believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Jessica, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. A family friend told my mom about rhythmic gymnastics, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 21 years.

I love being part of Special Olympics. I’ve been in it since I was 16, and I have improved so much.

One of my proudest moments was my first time at Nationals.

I work at St. George’s Daycare, where I have worked for 10 years.

Being part of Team Ontario means being proud of myself.

My advice? Try your hardest and work out to your full potential.

Hi! I’m Jocelyn, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. My mom took me to my first gymnastics class, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends — first meeting Brittany, Jessica, and Victoria, and becoming best friends afterwards.

One of my proudest moments was getting a gold medal at Provincials for rhythmic gymnastics in Level 1 floor routine.

I have been to Nationals before in Rhythmic Gymnastics in Antigonish.

I volunteer at Monsignor Phillip Coffey Elementary School with JK and SK students, and I stay active through soccer, basketball, baseball, rhythmic gymnastics, Mercury Dance Academy, and volunteering at school with my family.

Being part of Team Ontario is exciting — meeting new people and going to new places in the world.

My advice? Listen to what you're told, use manners, be polite, and stay focused.

Hi! I’m Keira, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first got involved because of my mom, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends and grow through sport. My biggest sport achievement so far has been making it to Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me because I’ve overcome challenges along the way.

My advice? Never give up and keep trying until you succeed.

Hi! I’m Kimana, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first got involved after meeting an athlete at a Special Olympics golf tournament. I found out more information, and my parents considered the opportunity for me to join.

Special Olympics gave me the ability to be an athlete in a sport I love. That impact has transferred into my academics, work experiences, and all areas of my personal life. It has helped me develop leadership and confidence. Special Olympics has been so supportive and encouraging, which motivates me to do my best.

One of my biggest achievements was going to my first World Games in Los Angeles in 2015. I’ve been to two other World Games as well, and I’m a 3-time World Champion. At the Berlin World Games, I also earned Canada’s first gold medal.

I’ve competed at Nationals in Vancouver and Antigonish, NS, and at World Games in LA, Abu Dhabi, and Berlin.

I stay active in my community through the Torch Run, Champion Breakfast, and Tim Hortons events.

Being part of Team Ontario means showing my love for the sport, meeting new people, and having so much fun.

My advice? Be brave, enjoy the Games, and enjoy your journey.

Hi! I’m Laura, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first got involved after a family member told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the program for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me stay physically active and build confidence. One of my proudest moments was qualifying for the 2026 Summer National Games.

I work at Foodland in the Bakery Department and stay active by participating in Special Olympics sports and community activities.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new people and sharing this experience together.

My advice? Have fun, try your hardest, and ask for help if you need it.

Hi! I’m Maria, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario. I started with track and then rhythmic gymnastics — my mom got me registered. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has given me a safe space to be myself and a place where friends accept me for who I am and where I can have fun.

One of my proudest moments is anytime I go up to perform.

I work at Wendy’s as a crew member. I stay active by going to different events like fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means I have the honour to represent Ontario, see old friends from around the province, meet new friends, and have fun.

My advice? Believe in yourself. Reach for the stars — they will come to you and you will shine!

Hi! I’m Yanhong, and I compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Grade 5 at Sacred Heart School, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics keeps me busy and active, and I’ve built many friendships along the way. One of my proudest moments was going to Thunder Bay for Nationals in Snowshoeing. I was also part of Team Ontario’s snowshoeing team in 2020.

I work three mornings a week at Sobeys in Amherstburg and help with fundraisers like the Torch Run and Polar Plunge.

I’m very proud of myself and excited to represent Team Ontario.

My advice? Do your best — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Abbi, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through my teacher, who is now my coach, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for six years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet so many great friends. I love to play lots of different sports, and I am very competitive. I always try my best and strive for the “W”!

One of my proudest moments was my soccer team getting to go to Nationals.

I work at Pinetree Catering.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me super proud of myself and my teammates. I’m excited to play against other great athletes and teams.

My advice? Try your best and try new things.

Hi! I’m Alisha, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved after being told about the program from a worker, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has made me feel included. It has allowed me to travel and make new friends.

One of my biggest sport achievements was representing Team Canada for alpine skiing in 2021. I previously participated in the 2020 National Winter Games for alpine skiing and qualified for the 2021 Winter World Games in Kazan, Russia, but did not attend due to COVID and the war.

I work at Care Partners, a nursing agency, as an administrative assistant, and I’m active as a spokesperson and through fundraisers.

Being part of Team Ontario means my hard work has paid off. It makes me proud to represent my province in a sport I absolutely love — soccer.

My advice? Train and work hard. Enjoy the journey and have fun along the way.

Hi! I’m Andria, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved through my coaches and have now been part of Special Olympics for two years.

Special Olympics has helped me get exercise.

One of my proudest moments is my family and friends.

I stay active through friendship.

Being part of Team Ontario means “awesome sauce.”

My advice? Leadership.

Hi! I’m Arien, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved in high school and have now been part of Special Olympics for two years.

Special Olympics has helped me learn to trust and enjoy sports.

One of my proudest moments was scoring the last goal to qualify for Nationals.

I work as a dishwasher at East Side Mario’s, and I’m involved with Cadets.

Being part of Team Ontario is a promise I made with a close friend — that we would make it all the way to Worlds.

My advice? Have fun and try your best.

Hi! I’m Carole, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Soccer! I first got involved through a friend and have now been part of Special Olympics for 30 years.

Special Olympics has given my daughter a safe and inclusive environment to grow and thrive. There isn’t just one proud moment — watching our athletes achieve their goals has been the most meaningful experience.

I serve as Treasurer for our local council and help organize community initiatives.

Being part of Team Ontario fills me with pride for our athletes.

My advice? Represent and promote Team Ontario with pride and positivity.

Hi! I’m Cederique, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved through high school programming, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me gain confidence and grow as a person. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal at Provincials in Brantford.

Being part of Team Ontario means the world to me — I get to explore new places and represent my community.

My advice? Believe in yourself and you will achieve anything.

Hi! I’m Chante, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through friends and have now been part of Special Olympics for three years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends.

One of my proudest moments was making the Unified MLS soccer team for Toronto FC.

I am active in my community as a peer coach.

Being part of Team Ontario means being proud to represent your province.

My advice? Never give up on your dreams.

Hi! I’m Cheyenne, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved with Special Olympics by joining my local program, and I’ve now been part of it for two years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life by teaching me teamwork and helping me grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was achieving my goal of qualifying for Team Ontario.

Being selected for Team Ontario means I’ve reached something I worked hard for — and I’m excited to represent my province.

My advice? Work as a team, listen to everyone’s opinions, and support one another.

Hi! I’m Cody, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved because my parents were coaches, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 18 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life in so many positive ways. My proudest moment is finally making it to Nationals with my teammates.

I work as a fashion associate at Walmart and stay active by helping with fundraisers in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — especially sharing the experience with my teammates.

My advice? I hope all of us are judged by our effort and heart — not anything else.

Hi! I’m Dante, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through basketball and have now been part of Special Olympics for six years.

When asked how Special Olympics has impacted my life — no.

One of my proudest moments was competing at Provincials.

I work as a cook.

I’m not active in other ways within my Special Olympics community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot.

My advice? Work hard and learn from your losses.

(Continuing next unique athlete after duplicates in sheet)

28 Years Old

Hi! I’m Darby, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! One of my biggest achievements was being named “Most Inspirational Runner” for track and field in high school.

Being selected for Team Ontario means the absolute world to me — it’s a dream come true. I’m excited to represent my community and compete at Nationals.

My advice? Believe in yourself, and if you want something badly enough, work hard for it.

Hi! I’m Donald, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through baseball and have now been part of Special Olympics for seven years.

Special Olympics brought me to sports.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario is great — I’m happy Brampton called me up to play for them.

My advice? Go with the flow.

Hi! I’m Dylan, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I got involved in Special Olympics by asking around and found out about it through Parry Bird, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics has opened my eyes to new opportunities and new people through different sports.

One of my biggest sport achievements was making it to the World Games. I have played at World Games and National Games in soccer.

I work at the MNR as a cleaner and stay active by working out and helping with fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot because I can play the sport I love.

My advice? Never give up on your goals and have a positive attitude.

Hi! I’m Ewen, and I play Soccer for Team Ontario at the 2026 National Games! My path with Special Olympics started through my high school — my parents realized there were opportunities to compete outside of school too, and I found my local community and joined multiple sports.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to fall in love with sports I’d never tried before, and I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world representing my country. Some of my proudest moments came in speedskating: winning gold in the 1500m at the Special Olympics Winter World Games in Italy, and being chosen as flag bearer, leading Team Canada into the opening ceremonies.

I work at The Watering Can in Vineland, Ontario, in the kitchen of the pastry market, and I stay active in my community by supporting fundraising and social events, judging a talent show for artists with intellectual disabilities, and serving on the Athletes Leadership Council.

This is my first Summer Nationals, and after years of competing in winter sports, I can’t wait to represent Ontario in soccer and make my province proud.

My advice? Enjoy the experience — take time to soak in every part of the Games, because those memories stay with you forever.

Hi! I’m Jerome, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. My parents were athletes, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics is a good time with friends.

One of my proudest moments was winning in Brantford.

I work at Montana’s Bar and Grill and go to the gym three times a week.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot — it’s my first time going, and I’m looking forward to the competition.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy the game you play.

Hi! I’m Jeremy, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Soccer. I first got involved by coaching sledge hockey for South Coast Special Needs for 18 years and through the Law Enforcement Torch Run. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 9 years.

Special Olympics brings joy and purpose to my life. It gives me another way to give back to my community.

One of my proudest moments is coaching.

I work as a Police Officer for the Ontario Provincial Police, and I stay active through the Law Enforcement Torch Run and coaching floorball.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’m excited to represent Ontario at the National Games.

My advice? Work hard and have fun.

Hi! I’m Keith, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a coach, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 40 years.

Special Olympics has helped me stay in shape.

One of my proudest moments was competing at Worlds. I have also participated in Powerlifting.

I work in motel cleaning and stay active through walking leadership.

Being part of Team Ontario means having fun.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Kevin, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved when my cousin was a head coach and I joined. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 28 years.

Special Olympics has helped me stay in excellent condition with exercise.

One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals.

I deliver flyers for work.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new people and playing against new teams.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Kyle, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! I got started four years ago through a friend and teammate, and I work at Dragonfly sorting mail and packages.

Special Olympics has helped me become more confident in myself and my abilities, and I’ve gained great friends along the way. One of my proudest moments was walking out into the opening ceremonies at the 2025 Provincial Games in Brantford — hearing the applause and salutes from the men and women in uniform is a moment I won’t forget.

Being part of Team Ontario is everything to me. This is the pinnacle of my soccer career so far.

My advice? Be brave and be strong — but don’t be reckless. Fight until the last whistle!

Hi! I’m Laura, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Soccer. I first got involved through Shannon and have now been part of Special Olympics for two years.

Special Olympics is very rewarding for me.

One of my proudest moments was making the coaching staff.

I work in long term care.

Being part of Team Ontario means I want to give the best to our athletes.

My advice? Try your best — everyone is proud of you.

Hi! I’m Mandy, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Soccer. I first got involved through coaching softball and have now been part of Special Olympics for two years.

Special Olympics has absolutely impacted my life.

One of my proudest moments was making the coaching staff for the National Games.

I work as an Activity Manager at Cassellholme.

Being part of Team Ontario is a chance of a lifetime.

My advice? Have fun, enjoy, and make memories.

Hi! I’m Mathew, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved through public school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 27 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends.

One of my proudest moments was winning 2 Provincials.

I previously competed in Soccer at the 2013 Vancouver Games.

I work as a Cleaner at a casino, and I stay active by playing sport.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lifetime.

My advice? Never stop believing.

Hi! I’m Maya, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved in high school and have now been part of Special Olympics for three years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends.

One of my proudest moments was scoring lots of goals at Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very proud of our team and how hard we worked.

My advice? Work hard and you will win.

Hi! I’m Megan, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. Sandra made me join, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make new friends.

One of my proudest moments was going to the Yukon.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel really proud and excited to be part of the Games.

My advice? Keep working hard and keep a positive attitude.

Hi! I’m Mert, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. My dad helped me get involved with Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 10 years.

Special Olympics helps me meet new people and connect with others.

One of my proudest moments was competing in the 2025 Summer Provincial Games with the Burlington soccer team, and also in the 2016 Summer Provincial Games with Burlington track and field.

I work at Movati Athletic as cleaning staff.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot, and it’s going to be a really good learning experience.

My advice? Always have fun. It doesn’t matter if you're winning or losing — always have fun.

Hi! I’m Neil, and I coach Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved because my daughter is an athlete, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 30 years.

Sports have always been important in my life, and Special Olympics has allowed me to stay involved and support athletes. One of my proudest moments was coaching my soccer team at the World Games.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me proud to see athletes reach a higher level of competition.

My advice? Train hard — but have fun while you’re doing it.

Hi! I’m Nicole, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved through Sandra and have now been part of Special Olympics for three years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make new friends and have fun.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold and getting into Provincials.

I volunteered with Special Olympics when I was younger in bowling.

Being part of Team Ontario means being happy, being excited, and being proud.

My advice? Be a good team member. I will be wearing a bass pro hat.

Hi! I’m Randi, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. A friend told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 14 years.

Special Olympics helped me find a love of competing, and I really enjoy being part of the Women’s Soccer team.

One of my proudest moments was getting my first goal while I was in the Yukon.

I work at Tim Hortons.

Being part of Team Ontario means having my family come to Nationals to cheer me on. I’m proud to share this with them.

My advice? Positive vibes go a long way!

Hi! I’m Robyn, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a family friend told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 30 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make lots of friends — not just in my own community, but across Ontario and beyond. One of my proudest moments was winning a Bronze Medal at the World Games.

I’ve also competed at the 2010 National Games in London for Softball.

I stay active by helping out at fundraisers, tournaments, and community events.

Being part of Team Ontario is another opportunity to meet new people and represent proudly.

My advice? Relax, enjoy the whole experience, and don’t stress — you’ve earned it.

Hi! I’m Rodney, and I compete in Soccer for Team Ontario. I first got involved after friends and family told me about Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new people.

One of my proudest moments was winning Provincials in Brantford.

I attend fundraisers in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means I like being part of the team.

My advice? I don’t know.

Hi! I’m Shannon, and I coach Soccer for Team Ontario! I first got involved 41 years ago after seeing athletes playing baseball on my way home — and I’ve been part of Special Olympics ever since.

Special Olympics has strengthened my belief that anything is possible. One of my proudest moments was flying to Windsor with fellow bowling athletes — it was the first time I'd ever flown.

I stay active in my community in many ways, from volunteering at bingo to coaching and coordinating programs.

My advice? Sleep when you can and take advantage of every opportunity!

Hi! I’m Bianca, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved because my family was already part of Special Olympics, and I’ve now been involved for three years.

Special Olympics has had a positive impact on my life and helped me grow in sport. One of my proudest moments was winning gold at Provincials.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — it’s a big opportunity and something I’m really proud of.

My advice? Be friendly and support your teammates.

Hi! I’m Brad, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through 10-pin bowling and then expanded into other sports over the past 10 years.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to grow, compete, and be part of an amazing team. One of my biggest achievements was qualifying for Nationals — and I’ve previously attended National Games in 2018 for Softball.

I work in web design for Gooder Marketing.

Being part of Team Ontario is an honour and a privilege.

My advice? Be a team player — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Brook, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a friend invited me, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for five years.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to try new things and grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was playing at Provincials — and now Nationals!

I work at Maple Foods gathering eggs and also as an Independent Grocery clerk. I stay involved through fundraising and helping teammates.

Being part of Team Ontario means getting to try something new and have fun.

My advice? Remember we’re here to have fun and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Christina, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved through AHCL in Sundridge and have now been part of Special Olympics for 19 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to visit new places and make new friends. One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals for the second time.

Being part of Team Ontario means being with other Ontario teammates and representing together.

My advice? Have fun, do your best, and believe in yourself.

Hi! I’m Clarista, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario. I got involved through word of mouth, and Special Olympics has helped me with my disability.

One of my proudest moments is when I hit the ball and ran home — that feeling stays with me.

Going to Nationals again with my softball team means a lot to me… and I’m ready to have fun in Medicine Hat!

My advice? Don’t give up on your dreams. Don’t be afraid to try something new.

Hi! I’m Damian (you can call me Derf Jr), and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario. My family has played for over 25 years, and I grew up playing softball.

Special Olympics has impacted my life by giving me hope that there is a safe place.

My proudest moment was winning all 4 provincial games, and being part of Team Ontario makes me happy — I’m proud to be part of a team.

My advice? Don’t be discouraged — have fun and play hard.

Hi! I’m Dan, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through coaching softball in Aurora, and I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me develop patience and empathy. One of my proudest moments was attending National Games for the first time.

I stay involved in my community through Community Council and enjoy giving back whenever I can.

I’m extremely excited to represent Team Ontario.

My advice? Enjoy the moment.

Hi! I’m Devin, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Special Olympics through floor hockey, and I’ve been competing for four years now.

Special Olympics has given me the chance to grow, compete, and be part of a team. One of my biggest achievements was winning Special Olympics Softball Provincials.

I’ve always wanted to represent Team Ontario like my role models, and I’m excited for the opportunity.

My advice? Never give up — and remember all the people who are cheering you on!

Hi! I’m Eric, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I actually started out as a volunteer before becoming an athlete, and I’ve now been involved in Special Olympics for 22 years.

Special Olympics has had a positive impact on my life and helped me grow as a person. One of my proudest moments has been being able to play my sports again after an injury.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new people and playing against new teams during Nationals.

My advice? Do your best and have fun with the sports you love.

Hi! I’m Fraser, and I coach Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved by volunteering as a skills development coach, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for seven years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life in many positive ways and has introduced me to an incredible community. One of my proudest moments has been spending time with athletes and helping them grow.

Being part of Team Ontario is both an honour and a privilege.

My advice? Be proud of the fact that you’ve been selected — you’ve earned it.

Hi! I’m Fred, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my mom and stepdad, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 27 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life positively in so many ways. One of my proudest moments was winning silver at Nationals in Nova Scotia for Softball.

I work as a school custodian and volunteer firefighter and stay active through fundraising in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot.

My advice? Be friendly and support one another.

Hi! I’m Jaxon, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved by joining the softball team, and being part of Special Olympics has been awesome — it’s made me feel very happy.

One of my proudest moments was winning gold medals with all my team, and making Team Ontario means everything to me. I’m so proud to represent Ontario.

My advice? Try your best and have fun.

Hi! I’m John, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through word of mouth, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 28 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet new people and try new sports. One of my proudest moments was being part of Team Ontario and going to Nationals for Softball.

Being part of Team Ontario means a whole lot to me.

My advice? Don’t be afraid to try new things — and never give up.

Hi! I’m Karen, and I’m proud to be part of Team Ontario in Softball! I first got involved when my son was being teased in regular sports, and Special Olympics became a place where he — and our family — felt welcomed and supported.

Special Olympics has given me a completely different outlook, especially seeing athletes succeed and grow. I’m so proud of all of these athletes and excited to attend Nationals with them.

I work as a manager at Tim Hortons and stay active by volunteering, coaching, and supporting the program whenever needed.

My advice? Enjoy every moment. Have fun and make new friends!

Hi! I’m Kelsey, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through family and friends and have now been part of Special Olympics for nine years.

Special Olympics has helped me grow personally and develop strong team-building skills. I’ve previously participated at Nationals in Curling.

I’m self-employed making knitted items and stay active in my community through volunteering.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me proud of my team.

My advice? Do your best — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Riley, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I joined Special Olympics when I turned 16 and started in skiing and softball.

It’s been amazing meeting new friends and competing at different levels. One of my proudest moments was going to the Provincial Games in Brantford.

Being part of Team Ontario is an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to represent my community at Nationals.

My advice? Always try your best.

Hi! I’m Robert, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Softball! I first got involved when my son became an athlete in 2021, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for four years.

Coaching has been an extremely rewarding experience. One of my proudest moments was our team winning a gold medal at the 2025 Provincial Games.

I work as Director of Call Centre Operations and stay active by coaching softball, athletics, soccer, basketball, and more.

Being part of Team Ontario is a great opportunity to support athletes and represent our community.

My advice? Most of the work happens during training — prepare well and trust the process.

Hi! I’m Rori, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved when my mom connected with someone in our town who coached Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the program for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet many new people and travel to different places. One of my proudest moments was earning five medals at the Provincial Games for track and field.

Being part of Team Ontario gives me the chance to visit new places and push myself further.

My advice? Don’t give up.

Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved by joining a basketball program in Greater Durham, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 21 years.

I love sports and being active in competition. One of my biggest achievements was making Provincials, which was a proud moment for me.

Being selected for Team Ontario is so exciting — I can hardly contain it! I’m proud to represent my community.

My advice? Work hard, listen to your coaches, and most of all — have fun.

Hi! I’m Stefanie, and I compete in Softball for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my parents, and I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 17 years.

The first time I tried Special Olympics, I felt so welcome. The coaches and athletes made me feel included — and they still do.

One of my proudest moments was when we won Provincials in Brantford, and a few days later my dad passed away.

Being part of Team Ontario and going to Medicine Hat is a life-long dream with my friends.

I stay active in my community through the food bank, fundraising, curling, bowling, and helping seniors.

My advice? Don’t be afraid to try new things and never give up. Keep going.

Hi! I’m Alexa, and I coach Swimming for Team Ontario. I was approached by a developmental support worker at a summer camp who knew I swam and thought I would be a perfect fit to join the club. I came to practice and loved it — and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for five years.

Special Olympics has taught me lessons about patience and determination. I can show up to practice and immediately be in a good mood with a smile on my face. My athletes are the reason I come back every week.

One of my proudest moments is seeing my athletes proud of themselves after their races.

I work as an Occupational Therapist at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Being part of Team Ontario is an honour. I’m excited to learn and grow as a coach.

My advice? Have fun and embrace every opportunity presented to you!

Hi! I’m Amiera, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My mom met a lady in Goderich who invited me to swim with the Special Olympics swimmers there when I was 4 years old, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped grow my swim family and introduced me to so many new friends.

One of my proudest moments was at my very first Special Olympics swim meet. I swam the 100 IM against a single male swimmer. I was 9 years old and very little, and he was 36 and very big. I was scared, but I swam my best race and beat him. The entire crowd cheered, he shook my hand and told me he was proud of me — and I was proud of me too.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’m very proud to represent my province and give my best effort. I’m excited to share this Team Ontario experience with my favorite coach — my mom.

I’m new to my current Special Olympics community but look forward to joining fundraising activities and leadership training.

My advice? Practice hard, try your best, and have fun!

Hi! I’m Angelina, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! My mom found the Halton Hills Special Olympics program for me, and I’ve now been involved for 12 years.

I love my friends and teammates at Special Olympics — they mean so much to me. One of my biggest achievements was competing at the 2025 Canada Games in swimming.

I’m part of four Halton Hills teams and help out whenever I can.

I’m very excited to attend Nationals with Team Ontario.

My advice? Have fun and cheer on your teammates!

Hi! I’m Austin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I started my Special Olympics journey 16 years ago with Alpine Skiing, and since then I’ve built lifelong friendships and had the chance to travel for competitions.

One of my proudest moments was competing at the 2018 National Summer Games in Antigonish, Nova Scotia for swimming.

Being part of Team Ontario means the chance to meet and compete with athletes from across the country.

My advice? A good warm-up makes a good competition!

Hi! I’m Beth, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved in swimming and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends.

One of my proudest moments was finishing my 200 Backstroke in 1st place at the Spring Games in Kitchener-Waterloo.

I stay active in my community through Curling, Figure Skating, Swimming, and Dragon Boat.

Being part of Team Ontario means I qualified to be on the Team Ontario Training Squad in Medicine Hat.

My advice? Cheer on your teammates.

Hi! I’m Breanne, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I started with Special Olympics 10 years ago, and it has had such a positive impact on my life.

One of my proudest moments was winning two gold medals at the Provincial Games in Waterloo. I worked really hard to get there, and qualifying for Nationals means so much to me.

I work as a Program Coordinator with the Council, and I participate in our flower fundraiser every year to stay active in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario is something I’m incredibly proud of.

My advice? Just have fun with everything you get to do as an athlete!

Hi! I’m Bree, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My family introduced me to Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 20 years.

I’ve met many new friends, attended three Provincial Games, and gained more confidence.

One of my proudest moments was the 2024 Provincials, where I set a personal best on my butterfly.

I work at Shoppers Drug Mart, where I do merchandising and cash.

I have participated in Torch Runs and represented Special Olympics at fundraising events.

Being part of Team Ontario means making my first Nationals — a dream come true!

My advice? Have fun. Try your best!

Hi! I’m Brittany, and I coach Swimming for Team Ontario. I first worked with Special Olympians as a program assistant for figure skating. Later, while working at our local pool as a lifeguard, I heard a swim team was being started and knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.

Special Olympics has added so much to my life. Working with athletes and other coaches has become a highlight of my week. The joy and sense of community within this organization is truly special.

One of my proudest moments was attending Provincial Games in Waterloo as an assistant coach and being part of the achievements and joy of all team members.

I work at Collingwood General & Marine Hospital as a nurse and am active as a Head Coach, Community Coordinator, and member of the fundraising committee.

Being part of Team Ontario is a great honor.

My advice?

Be proud of your accomplishments so far — you've worked hard. Enjoy training, try your best, and enjoy every moment of the Games.

Hi! I’m Britney, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through swimming and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has made me a better athlete.

One of my proudest moments was going to Vancouver.

I have participated in Floor Hockey.

Being part of Team Ontario means having fun and meeting new friends.

My advice? Enjoy what you are doing.

Hi! I’m Calley, and I coach Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved because my mom is a Special Olympics swim coach — and I’ve now been part of the community for 11 years.

Special Olympics has introduced me to so many amazing people and experiences. One of my proudest moments was cheering on and watching my teammates succeed — being part of a team means everything to me.

I’m also an assistant swim coach for the York South program, which allows me to give back.

I’m honoured to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? All you can do is try your best — and have fun!

Hi! I’m Chantelle, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved through swimming, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends. One of my proudest achievements was making it to the Provincial Games and now going to National Games for the first time. At the 2024 Provincial Games, I won 3 gold medals and 1 silver medal.

I work at The Frosted Cupcake, where I do buttercream, prepare dry ingredients, and serve customers.

I also play golf, bocce, and swimming in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me so excited to meet new people and compete in swimming!

My advice? You can do it if you put your mind to it!

Hi! I’m Christopher, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved through my teacher at school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 34 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to travel, meet new people, and compete internationally. I’ve won gold medals for Canada in Germany and Austria and have competed in Sudbury (Athletics), Prince Albert (Swimming), and Quebec.

I work as a dishwasher at Waldo-on-King and help with Torch Run events in London and Strathroy, as well as Polar Plunges.

Representing Ontario means I want to win gold for myself and my community.

My advice? Practice — I swim three times a week!

Hi! I’m Connor, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through Community Living Burlington and have now been part of Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends.

One of my proudest moments was winning a silver medal at Worlds.

I stay active in my community through fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me excited.

My advice? We will have fun.

Hi! I’m Daniel, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved after watching Special Olympics Games on TV — and I knew I wanted to be part of it. I’ve now been involved for 26 years.

Special Olympics has given me opportunities to travel and compete. One of my proudest moments was competing at the 2019 National Games in Antigonish, Nova Scotia.

I work at Sobeys looking after the front of the store with buggies and customer support.

Being chosen for Team Ontario makes me proud and shows that my hard work has paid off.

My advice? Train hard, have fun, and try to meet new friends.

Hi! I’m Deb, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Swimming. My uncle was involved in Special Olympics, and as a young person I would tag along. I’ve now been involved for 15 years.

I receive so much joy from these hard-working athletes — they inspire me.

One of my proudest moments was getting accepted to coach for Nationals.

I work with the Ministry of Natural Resources as Director of Forest Operations, and I coach swimming with our community club. I also participate in the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario is a very proud moment.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Dianne, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Swimming. I first got involved while lifeguarding a swim meet, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 30 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet so many friends and learn so much.

One of my proudest moments has been watching the athlete grow in the sport.

Being part of Team Ontario is very special.

My advice? Enjoy your time.

Hi! I’m Emily, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My mom found out about Special Olympics when I was a baby, and I’ve now been part of it for 28 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to make friends and travel.

One of my proudest moments was being inducted into the Halton Hills Sports Hall of Fame.

I have participated in Rhythmic Gymnastics and Swimming at Nationals and Worlds.

I volunteer at my church and help with soup kitchen and community dinners. I also take part in the Torch Run.

Being part of Team Ontario feels amazing and I am grateful.

My advice? Have fun, make best friends, and just be you.

Hi! I’m Erin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through track and field Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has been about track and field, soccer, baseball, bocce, bowling, swimming, and friends.

One of my proudest moments was basketball.

I go to fundraisers in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario is great.

My advice? Making friends easier.

Hi! I’m Gael, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved by swimming with my Ottawa community and have now been part of Special Olympics for 16 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to socialize and be involved in various activities and sports.

One of my proudest moments includes various participation and medals during Provincials, Nationals, and Canada events. I have participated at the National Games in Antigonish for swimming.

Being part of Team Ontario means loving my participation.

My advice? Enjoy your time here and do your best.

Hi! I’m Harris, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I was invited to join my local Special Olympics activities, and I’ve now been involved for 25 years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made lots of friends and built lasting connections. One of my proudest moments was competing at the Provincial Games in Guelph.

I work two days a week at Canadian Tire in the warehouse and help with fundraising and supporting other sports in my community.

I’m looking forward to making more friends and seeing everyone at Nationals.

My advice? Do extra training during the winter and spring — it makes a difference!

Hi! I’m Jack, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My parents signed me up, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for four years.

Special Olympics has been great.

One of my proudest moments is swimming. I have previously participated in figure skating.

I work at Tim Hortons.

Being part of Team Ontario feels good.

My advice? Be happy.

Hi! I’m Jason, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Special Olympics through swimming and bowling, and I’ve now been part of the movement for 31 years.

Special Olympics has had a huge impact on my life. I see myself as an athlete — just like Eric Liddell. One of my proudest moments was winning two Gold Medals in 2024. I’ve also competed at Nationals before, including Floor Hockey in Thunder Bay in 2020.

I work at Sobeys in the produce department and stay connected to my community through Trinity United Church.

Being part of Team Ontario means independence to me.

Hi! I’m Jennifer, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Swimming. I first got involved when my daughter was participating, and I volunteered to help out our team. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

I have been blessed with so many new friends. The Special Olympians remind me every day of the true joy that can be found in sport if you stop and enjoy the moment.

One of my proudest moments was watching the athletes cheer and support their teammates during the Provincial Games — and having the honour of carrying the Special Olympics flag during the opening ceremonies.

I am active as a Team Manager and swim coach in Cambridge, and I am a former Community Coordinator for the New Hamburg community.

Being part of Team Ontario is an honour. I’m excited to help these phenomenal athletes reach their goals and to experience this alongside my daughter as she takes part in her first National Games.

My advice? Practice hard, try your best, and always have fun.

Hi! I’m Jesse, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved because my friends were in it, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 21 years.

Special Olympics has made a big difference in my life. I used to get in trouble and was stressed — it has changed my life.

One of my proudest moments was being involved in all my sports and making Nationals for floor hockey.

I work at the Airport in Security.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me surprised and happy to be part of the team.

My advice? Don’t give up on your dreams and enjoy your time with your sports!

Hi! I’m Julia, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved when another family introduced us to Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of the community for 17 years.

Special Olympics gives me opportunities to participate in sport and represent my community. One of my biggest achievements has been becoming stronger and continuing to grow as an athlete.

I attend public events representing my local Special Olympics community and love being involved.

I’m excited to attend the National Games and represent Ontario.

My advice? Let’s train hard and prepare together for Nationals!

Hi! I’m Justin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through Challenger League and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new friends while staying healthy and active.

One of my proudest moments was winning Nationals Gold in Antigonish with the Durham Falcons. I also participated in the 2018 National Summer Games in Antigonish for Softball.

I work at Service Canada as a Public Service Officer.

I stay active by attending local fundraisers to spread awareness about Special Olympics and by completing the Athlete Leadership Program.

Being part of Team Ontario gives me an amazing opportunity to compete on a big stage while meeting athletes from all over the country.

My advice?

Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Do your best and have fun!

Hi! I’m Kara, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved with Special Olympics through my community, and I’ve now been part of the program for 15 years.

Special Olympics has helped me become more independent and confident. One of my proudest moments was finding out I made Team Ontario.

I work at Sobeys pushing carts and stay active by helping with fundraising in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — it’s one of my biggest goals achieved.

My advice? Get out in your community wearing your Special Olympics gear and be proud!

Hi! I’m Kayla, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved because of my mom, and I’ve now been swimming with Special Olympics for 20 years.

Swimming has been part of my life for a long time and keeps me active and focused. One of my biggest achievements was going to the Canada Games in 2017 as one of the top two athletes.

I’ve also competed at Nationals in 2018 for Swimming.

It’s an honour to represent Team Ontario at Nationals.

My advice? Follow your dreams in your sport.

Hi! I’m Kevin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My parents introduced me to Special Olympics in curling, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

I’ve made many new friends through all the sports I play.

One of my proudest moments is attending Nationals for bocce and many Provincial Games for curling and swimming. I have attended National Games before.

I work at Canadian Tire, where I help customers find things and stock shelves. I’m active in various fundraisers like the Polar Plunge.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me both excited and proud to attend the National Games in Medicine Hat.

My advice? Enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Kimberley, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved with my speedskating team heading to a Toronto meet back in 2020, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 5 years.

Special Olympics has helped with my confidence and believing in myself more, and I’ve met new friends and members.

One of my proudest moments was heading to Nationals for the first time — skating on the ice was awesome. I participated at Nationals in 2024 for speedskating.

I work part-time on the production crew for an AHL hockey team for camera and related roles, and I stay active through volunteering.

Being part of Team Ontario means trying to beat my personal best times.

My advice? Be confident in yourself.

Hi! I’m Mark, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 25 years. I can’t remember exactly how I first got involved, but it’s been a big part of my life ever since.

Special Olympics has helped me make friends.

One of my proudest moments was earning 3 gold medals at the Waterloo Provincial Games.

I work at McMaster University as a sports complex attendant and take part in fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am proud.

My advice? Everyone should try their best and have fun!

Hi! I’m Matthew, and I’m proud to represent Team Ontario in Swimming! I first got involved because my cousin was an athlete on the same team I’m still part of today — and I’ve now been involved with Special Olympics for 30 years.

Special Olympics was my first coaching experience, and it has played a huge role in shaping my journey in sport. One of my proudest moments has been being able to coach at Nationals.

I stay active in my community by helping run our local swimming team and serving as a DTM.

My advice? Bring the right attitude and always do your best.

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My parents signed me up, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 13 years.

Special Olympics has helped me with my physical and mental health and allowed me to meet new people.

One of my proudest moments was being named Athlete of the Year and getting 2nd place at the 2025 Special Olympics Winter World Games for figure skating.

I have also been part of the 2024 National Winter Games and the 2025 Winter World Games for figure skating.

I have been active in the Special Olympics community for many years as an athlete.

Being part of Team Ontario is a huge honor.

My advice? Don’t stress out — just try your best and have fun.

Hi! I’m Nehan, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario. I first got involved after my parents convinced me to try swimming, which I ended up being a big fan of. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 10 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet new and interesting people.

One of my proudest moments was getting 3 gold medals at the Provincial Games.

Being part of Team Ontario means I can demonstrate my skills to my family, my community, and my province.

My advice?

No matter how different you may be from your peers, remember that one thing that will be the same is the determination for the game.

Hi! I’m Rob, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Swimming. I first got involved when a friend asked me to help coach, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 43 years.

Special Olympics has shown me not to sweat the small things in life.

One of my proudest moments is sharing knowledge in sports.

Being part of Team Ontario means being part of a team.

My advice? Work hard — you are already a winner.

Hi! I’m Rose, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first learned about Special Olympics from my Grade 9 teacher, and I’ve now been involved for 14 years.

Special Olympics has made a big difference in my life — especially through staying active and building strength. One of my proudest achievements has been making it to the Canada Games and now to Nationals.

I enjoy helping out with fundraisers whenever I can, and I’m grateful to be part of Team Ontario at the 2026 National Games.

My advice? Never give up on your goals, even when things get tough.

Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My dad got me involved, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has taught me about leadership.

One of my proudest moments was getting an award in Chicago.

Being part of Team Ontario made me happy to be part of the team.

My advice? Keep working hard! Challenge yourself! Don’t give up and just have fun!

Hi! I’m Sara, and I’m proud to be a Swimming Coach with Team Ontario! I first got involved because my mom helped start our first local teams, and I’ve been part of Special Olympics for 9 years.

Special Olympics has helped develop my passion, empathy, and leadership skills. Being selected as part of the management staff for Nationals means a lot to me.

As a coach, my advice is simple: trust your preparation and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Stephenie, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I wanted to find something to do, so I looked on the internet and found Special Olympics. I’ve now been involved for 15 years.

Special Olympics has made me stronger as a person.

One of my proudest moments was making my third Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot to me — to be part of a team and represent my province on a big stage.

My advice? Work hard and have fun.

Hi! I’m Steve, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. My dad helped me get involved in Special Olympics, and I’ve now been part of it for 36 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make new friends.

One of my proudest moments is being proud to be on Team Ontario.

I have previously participated at National or World Games.

I stay active by helping others.

Being part of Team Ontario means trying to go to the World Games.

My advice? Help others to become good swimmers.

Hi! I’m Sydney, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved when my special education teacher in public school introduced me to Special Olympics — and I’ve now been part of it for 12 years.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve made lots of friends and grown as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was winning all of my races at the Provincial Games for swimming.

I also competed in downhill skiing at Nationals in Thunder Bay.

I’ve helped with fundraisers in my community and love staying involved.

My advice? Don’t be nervous. Do your best — and enjoy all the experience!

Hi! I’m Tessa, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved in soccer, and that started my Special Olympics journey 10 years ago.

Through Special Olympics, I’ve met new friends and coaches and improved my skills. One of my proudest moments was winning four medals at the Provincial Spring Games.

I work at Parks Canada in the summer as a lock operator on the Trent-Severn Waterway and stay active on the swim team and women’s soccer team.

Being part of Team Ontario is something I never thought would happen — and I’m so proud of it.

My advice? One small step to improve every day makes you stronger over time.

Hi! I’m Timofey, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first joined Special Olympics because I was looking for a meaningful physical activity, and I’ve now been involved for 8 years.

Special Olympics provides me with strong social connections and opportunities to grow. One of my biggest achievements was winning silver in competition.

Being part of Team Ontario means recognition for the hard work I’ve put in over the years.

My advice? Have fun and always do your best.

Hi! I’m Tin, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario! I first got involved with Special Olympics 11 years ago and have been part of the LaSalle-Windsor community ever since.

Special Olympics has helped me maintain my fitness and stay active. One of my biggest sport achievements has been reaching higher levels of competition in swimming.

I stay active within my local Special Olympics program and enjoy being involved whenever I can.

Being part of Team Ontario means working hard and representing my community with pride.

My advice? Keep working hard and stay focused on your goals.

Hi! I’m Victoria, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. A friend invited me out for tryouts, and I made it — and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 11 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new friends, helped me not be so shy, and shown me there is no judgement.

One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals in 2018 and bringing home my first gold medal for swimming. I participated in Swimming at Nationals in 2018.

I stay active through volleyball and an adult church group.

Being part of Team Ontario is a great honor, and I’ve never been out there before — it’s a great opportunity.

My advice? Helping others.

Hi! I’m Zoe, and I compete in Swimming for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a parents’ program for people who have disabilities and have now been part of Special Olympics for 25 years.

Special Olympics has helped me live a healthy and active lifestyle and accomplish many different goals.

One of my proudest moments was making Team Canada for the Alpine Ski Team and coming home as a bronze medalist in GS. I have previously participated in 2010 Swimming, 2012 Alpine Skiing, and 2018 Swimming.

I help with Motionball events, 24-hour ski fundraising, and Torch Runs.

Being part of Team Ontario means representing my province means a lot to me, doing the sport I love — swimming — and making Team Ontario proud.

My advice? Achieve your goals, perform the best you can, meet new people, make friendships across Canada, and have fun in your sport of swimming.

Hi! I’m Aidan, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I first learned about Special Olympics when a pamphlet came home from school, and I’ve been involved for 12 years.

Special Olympics keeps me fit, active, and connected with friends. One of my favourite highlights was winning gold.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me feel very proud.

My advice? If you have fun and do your best, good things can happen.

Hi! I’m Ashley, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I always try hard to be my best, whether I’m bowling or competing in track events.

Being part of Team Ontario means so much to me. I haven’t always had the chance to compete at this level, so I’m excited to represent my community at Nationals.

My advice? Try your best, meet new people, and enjoy the experience!

Hi! I’m Bill, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Tenpin. I first got involved by watching athletes in my community and have now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to help athletes attend Provincial, National, and World Games.

One of my proudest moments was preparing a local athlete to attend World Games.

Being part of Team Ontario provides an opportunity to help athletes achieve success.

My advice? Focus on your tasks to get better and have fun with it.

Hi! I’m Bradley, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I started in 5-pin bowling and have now been involved in Special Olympics for 14 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet lots of good people and build friendships. One of my proudest moments was being named Athlete of the Year for 2022–2023.

Being part of Team Ontario is an honour and gives me confidence.

I also participate in community car washes and BBQ fundraisers.

Hi! I’m Brenda, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Tenpin. I first got involved by starting a bowling program at my bowling center, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 18 years.

Special Olympics has brought much joy through helping the athletes.

One of my proudest moments is really enjoying working with the athletes on a regular basis.

I have served as Secretary for the past 14 years and help with many fundraising initiatives.

Being part of Team Ontario makes me very proud to be part of such an amazing organization. I love creating memories and seeing the athletes excel in their chosen sport.

My advice? Have fun and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Brody, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved by starting in school and have now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to travel and meet people.

One of my proudest moments was getting a bronze in Abu Dhabi and meeting Avril Lavigne. I have participated in bowling at the PEI Games and Abu Dhabi.

Being part of Team Ontario means I have worked hard in training.

My advice? Try your best and enjoy the experience.

Hi! I’m Donald, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved when a teacher showed me how to bowl in high school, and I’ve stuck with it ever since. I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 25 years.

Special Olympics has been pretty good over the years. I’ve met a lot of different people at different events.

One of my proudest moments was bowling at Worlds in Connecticut when I was younger — it was a fun experience. I have participated at both National and World Games for tenpin bowling.

I stay active by attending events in the community.

Being part of Team Ontario is pretty cool — I made it on the team.

My advice? Do not ever quit.

Hi! I’m JD, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved in high school and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has been fun.

One of my proudest moments was Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means representing Thunder Bay.

My advice? Work hard.

Hi! I’m JJ, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first got involved through softball, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 24 years.

Special Olympics has had a very big impact on my life. One of my proudest moments was winning gold in golf in Caledon. I’ve also competed in golf at Nationals before.

I stay active in my community by being involved in committees, councils, fundraisers, and leadership roles.

Being part of Team Ontario gives me the chance to meet other people and represent my community with pride.

Hi! I’m Jessica, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I got involved thanks to my mom, dad, and sister. I started when I was 7 years old, and they have supported me all these years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life so much. I’ve been to 3 Provincial Games and now 2 National Games and have met so many friends over the years.

One of my proudest achievements is my hard work and dedication to bowling over 18 years. At the Provincial Games in Waterloo, I won silver as a team, gold as a pair, and gold individually. I told myself I at least wanted bronze — and I got all three medals.

Being part of Team Ontario means so much to me, especially as it’s coming up on ten years since I’ve been to National Games.

My advice?

You ain’t got friends — you got family.

You can either run from it or learn from it.

Hi! I’m Joseph, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I first got involved in 2015 through high school, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for eight years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life in many ways, giving me the chance to compete and grow. One of my biggest achievements was competing at Provincials. I’ve also participated in World Games before.

I work at Next Supply Hydronics in the warehouse and recently helped with fundraising initiatives.

I’m in awe and so proud to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Be proud of how far you’ve come — and keep pushing forward.

Hi! I’m Justin, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I got involved with Special Olympics when I met my girlfriend in basketball — her name is Paula Finamore — and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 11 years.

To me, Special Olympics is about meeting new friends, hanging out with athletes, and having tons of fun while getting exercise.

One of my biggest achievements was at Kitchener-Waterloo, having bronze, silver, and gold around my neck.

I have competed in Basketball and Swimming at Nationals.

I work at Hartland Zehrs in Guelph, Ontario, as a front-end packer.

I stay active by working out in my condo in Guelph and doing tutoring and other activities.

Being part of Team Ontario means fulfilling my dreams — bowling is something that makes sense in my life right now.

My advice? Just have fun and make friends along the way.

Hi! I’m Kyle, and I compete in Athletics for Team Ontario! I first heard about the bowling league through friends, and that’s how my Special Olympics journey began seven years ago.

Special Olympics has helped me make many friends and stay active. One of my biggest achievements was winning four medals at the Provincial Games in Waterloo.

I stay involved by attending events like Motionball and the Torch Run.

I’m very proud to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Always be kind — and work hard.

Hi! I’m Lizzy, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I heard about Special Olympics from a friend and decided to try it out — and I’ve now been involved for 10 years.

Special Olympics has allowed me to meet amazing friends and make tons of memories — from my first tournament to my first Provincials and now my first Nationals.

One of my proudest moments was winning my first gold medal at Provincials.

I work at the Club of White Oaks in Niagara-on-the-Lake as a club cleaner.

Being part of Team Ontario means I have a lot of respect and pride for our province of Ontario and my family.

My advice? Do your best and have fun doing it.

Hi! I’m Lori, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Tenpin. I first got involved through the Super Hero Race and have now been part of Special Olympics for 11 years.

Special Olympics has given me some of the best times so far in my life.

One of my proudest moments is watching our athletes achieve their goals and seeing the excitement of a new experience and a new friendship being made.

I am active as a Community Coordinator.

Being part of Team Ontario means seeing friends I’ve made along the way and watching the faces of medal winners — and how these amazing athletes help each other when they lose.

My advice? Take the time to meet someone new.

Hi! I’m Missy, and I’m proud to represent Team Ontario in Tenpin Bowling! 🎳 I’ve been involved with Special Olympics for 12 years. I first got involved when I met a friend through SOO 10 Pin Bowling — and from there, everything grew.

Special Olympics has had a big impact on my life. It’s helped me meet new people, make new friends, and try new things. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in Guelph and then again at Provincials — that felt amazing!

Being chosen to attend the 2026 National Games in Medicine Hat makes me really happy. I’m proud to be part of Team Ontario.

My advice? Have fun and try your best. Don’t cry — just give it your all!

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved through my grandpa and have now been part of Special Olympics for 15 years.

Special Olympics has impacted my life a lot — I have met some of my closest friends through Special Olympics.

One of my proudest moments was scoring the gold medal goal in Thunder Bay in 2020.

I have participated in 2014 Vancouver and 2024 Calgary.

I work at Lakeview Bowl in Peterborough, Ontario as a Pin Cashier, and I help with fundraising.

Being part of Team Ontario means a lot. I am very happy to go to Nationals.

My advice? Enjoy the moment and have fun.

Hi! I’m Michael, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I first got involved when a friend invited me while I was bowling recreationally, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 12 years.

I really enjoy the competitive aspect of sport and pushing myself to improve. One of my proudest moments was winning three medals at a Provincial Games.

I work part-time at Great Lakes Brewery and stay active year-round, including playing lawn bowling in the summer.

This will be my first time going to Alberta, and I’m excited to represent Team Ontario.

My advice? Keep working. Keep going — even if you have a bad game.

Hi! I’m Nancy, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Tenpin. I first got involved through a friend and have now been part of Special Olympics for 23 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet new people.

One of my proudest moments was being a coach at Nationals. I have previously participated in 5 and 10-pin bowling at Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means meeting new people.

My advice? Have fun.

Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I first got involved in Special Olympics through Track and Field in elementary school, and I’ve now been part of the community for 15 years.

Special Olympics showed me that I’m not alone and helped me grow as a person. One of my proudest achievements was going to the National Games in 2016 — and again in 2020.

I work at Vineland Foodland and stay active by talking about and promoting Special Olympics in my community.

Being part of Team Ontario means everything to me, and I’ll work hard to represent my province.

My advice? Try hard, work hard — and most importantly, have fun.

Hi! I’m Spencer, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario. I first got involved after being told about it by a community member, Aimee Burtch, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 7 years.

Special Olympics has helped me meet a lot of new friends, have fun, and travel to new places.

One of my proudest moments was winning a gold, a silver, and two bronze medals in Waterloo.

I stay active through swimming and basketball.

Being part of Team Ontario means I am proud of myself.

My advice? Don’t give up and have fun.

Hi! I’m Vanessa, and I compete in Tenpin for Team Ontario! I started in Rhythmic Gymnastics and later switched to Tenpin, and I’ve now been involved for 10 years.

Special Olympics has helped me make so many good friends and grow as a person. One of my proudest moments was participating in the Provincial Games and working my way toward Nationals.

Being part of Team Ontario means I’ll get to make even more friends and teammates.

My advice? Just do your best — and enjoy it.