Special Olympics BC

British Columbia

Winter 2016

Vancouver Canucks forward Brandon Special Olympics Sutter and SOBC – Creston athlete Frances Collison earned a standing ovation at the unites and 2016 Sports Celebrities Festival. strengthens us

When Special Olympics BC – Creston athlete Frances Collison took the stage at the 2016 Sports Celebrities Festival presented by Silver Wheaton, she had a powerful message to share. “In Special Olympics, people see Frances first and not Down syndrome with its challenges. They see Frances Collison and what she is capable of!” she told the sold-out crowd of more than 650 attendees. “Special Olympics unites and strengthens every one of us in this room! Special Olympics athletes like me can reach their dreams!” Collison inspired everyone with her speech about the fun, friends, and fame that Special Olympics has brought to her life, along with a healthy lifestyle and increased confidence and skills. “When other people, who have the same disability as I have, see me doing Special Olympics sports that they think are impossible for them to do, they see hope. They hope that someday, they will be able to do that sport too, just like I do!” Collison said. “I think this happens for [Vancouver Canucks SCF ambassador] Brandon Sutter too. Lots Jeff Vinnick-VancouverCanucks of young hockey players look up to him and want to play hockey just like he does. We are role models both in our own way! This makes me feel proud. I feel so lucky to be part of something so special!”

Full Sports Celebrities Festival recap on page 18.

Special Olympics BC — An Accredited Chapter of Special Olympics Canada How to reach us… Government of Canada Dan Howe, President & CEO Direct line: 604-737-3079 Email: [email protected] Christina Hadley, Vice President, Fund supports and celebrates Development & Communications Direct line: 604-737-3073 Email: [email protected] Special Olympics Lois McNary, Vice President, Sport Direct line: 604-737-3117 Email: [email protected] Lori Cruddas, Manager, Community Development (Regions 7 & 8 ) Cell phone: 250-570-1455 Email: [email protected] Michelle Cruickshank, Manager, Community Development (Region 6) Cell phone: 250-208-5402 Email: [email protected] Shawn Fevens, Manager, Sport Direct line: 604-737-3055 Email: [email protected] Reanne Holden, Manager, Community Development (Region 2) Cell phone: 778-581-0511 Email: [email protected] Meg Ishida, Fundraising Coordinator Direct Line: 604-314-4535 Email: [email protected] James Marchland, Sport Coordinator, Performance Cell phone: 604-616-1342 Email: [email protected] Michael Obendoerfer, Communications Coordinator Direct line: 604-737-3131 Email: [email protected] Lauren Openshaw, Office Administrator Direct line: 604-737-3078 Vincent Li, Arthur Pangilinan, Lois McNary, Pam Keith, Dan Howe, and Becki Allen shared Special Email: [email protected] Olympics stories and gratitude on Parliament Hill. Josh Pasnak, Manager, Finance & Administration Direct line: 604-737-3180 The Government of Canada has been a Email: [email protected] crucial supporter of Special Olympics Canada Megan Pollock, Manager, Communications Direct line: 604-737-3077 and Special Olympics BC, providing funds to Email: [email protected] develop new and existing sport programs Ashten Staffen, Coordinator, Health & Sport and competitive opportunities. Without this Science significant support, we could not offer the Direct line: 604-737-3081 full range of opportunities that make such Email: [email protected] a difference in the lives of Special Olympics with many MPs from across B.C., including Charlotte Taylor, Manager, Fund Development athletes and their families. Delta MP Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport & LETR Liaison Direct line: 604-737-3059 This year, Special Olympics athletes, parents, and Persons with Disabilities. Email: [email protected] volunteers, and staff from across Canada spent SOBC representatives were also invited Leslie Thornley, Manager, Sport, Coach & Youth a day on Parliament Hill sharing the joy of to sit in the House of Commons and Senate Development Special Olympics with Members of Parliament, Chambers, where they were officially Cell phone: 250-317-1272 Senators, and Ministers. recognized by Senator Larry Campbell who Email: [email protected] It was a busy day of more than 130 meetings spoke about the importance of Special Sarah Wall, Manager, Community Development (Regions 3, 4 & 5) between Special Olympics representatives and Olympics programs. Direct line: 604-737-3125 Parliamentarians, sharing stories of how vital The day ended with an evening reception Email: [email protected] Government of Canada funding helps change hosted by Minister Qualtrough that celebrated Caitlin Woods-Rotering, Fundraising & lives through Special Olympics programs. a successful day on the Hill. We are so grateful Communications Coordinator Representing Special Olympics BC were to all the MPs and Senators who took the time Direct line: 604-737-3042 Email: [email protected] athletes Becki Allen of SOBC – Delta and to meet with SOBC representatives, and to Vincent Li of SOBC – Richmond, along with the Government of Canada for its ongoing Find Special Olympics BC online SOBC – Vancouver Co-Local Coordinator Arthur support of the Special Olympics movement. If www.specialolympics.bc.ca Pangilinan, SOBC Past Chair Pamela Keith, Vice you have a moment, thank your local Member Facebook & Instagram: specialolympicsbc President, Sport, Lois McNary, and President & of Parliament for this support as it truly makes Twitter: @sobcsociety CEO Dan Howe. The teams attended meetings a difference.

2 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Special Olympics BC Games returning to Kamloops

The 2017 Special Olympics BC Summer has hosted SOBC Provincial Games, and Games will be coming to Kamloops July 6 to Canada’s Tournament Capital was also the SOBC is grateful to Karl deBruijn and 8! Hot on the heels of the successful 2015 host of the first official SOBC Summer Games all the volunteers set to give their time SOBC Winter Games, Kamloops will be the first in 1986. as members of the Games Organizing community to host back-to-back SOBC Winter In 2017, the SOBC Games Opening Committee. Joining deBruijn and the GOC and Summer Games. Ceremony will be held on July 6, followed by as champions of the 2017 SOBC Summer The 2017 Provincial Games will be the competition throughout Friday, July 7 and Games are sponsors including the City of largest SOBC Games to date, with almost Saturday, July 8. A Closing Ceremony open to Kamloops and School District #73, who 1,300 athletes with intellectual disabilities Games participants only will be held on July 8 are generously returning as SOBC Games from all parts of the province and the Yukon and volunteer recognition breakfast on July 9. Platinum Sponsors. Sincere thanks to expected to compete, supported by more than SOBC is excited and grateful that Karl these first sponsors who have stepped 350 volunteer coaches and mission staff. The deBruijn, retired School District #73 forward to support the Games: Games will feature exciting competition and Superintendent, has stepped up to serve as inspiring displays of sportsmanship in the Chair of the 2017 SOBC Games Organizing Platinum Sponsors: 11 SOBC summer sports: 5- and 10-pin bowling, Committee. DeBruijn, who worked with the City of Kamloops athletics, basketball, bocce, golf, powerlifting, school district for 40 years, also volunteered School District #73 rhythmic gymnastics, soccer, softball, as a member of the organizing committee for  and swimming. the 2015 SOBC Winter Games that were held in Gold Sponsor: Competing in Provincial Games is a huge Kamloops and Sun Peaks. New Gold – New Afton Mine thrill in itself for the athletes, many of whom “I really believe in the mandate of Special will have their first opportunities ever to Olympics BC and I am pleased to again Bronze Sponsors: travel with a team, and will experience the have the opportunity to work with this Binnie Consulting joy of challenging themselves to attain and organization,” deBruijn says. “I really enjoyed Domtar – Kamloops exceed their athletic Teck goals. The competitors will also be chasing Media Sponsors: the opportunity to Broadcast Centre advance to national and NL Broadcasting international levels of competition. Top performers in being a part of the organizing committee Kamloops will qualify during the 2015 SOBC Winter Games. It for spots on Team BC was a great opportunity to work with some for the 2018 Special really talented community members who Olympics Canada were dedicated to making the Games a Summer Games in very special event for each of the athletes Antigonish, Nova attending from around the province. We Scotia, during the worked hard to ensure that our volunteers 50th anniversary of and our sport venues were completely ready the Special Olympics to host the athletes and the competitions. We movement. Out east, wanted each athlete to have a positive sport the participants will experience and an opportunity to achieve his/ compete to advance her personal best.” to the 2019 Special “Thanks to the hard work of the many Olympics World Summer Kamloops organizations and volunteers, Games in Abu Dhabi. the 2015 SOBC Winter Games were a great Kamloops has long success. I am confident that we can do the been a key location same for the 2017 Summer Games,” for Special Olympics deBruijn says. in B.C., as one of the Keith Klopfers More than 1,000 volunteers will be needed first communities to to help stage this inspiring event. Learn more offer Special Olympics at www.sobcgameskamloops.ca and follow programming in the the excitement with SOBC on Facebook and province, beginning in Instagram @specialolympicsbc and Twitter 1983. This will be the Track and field athletes proud on the podium at the last SOBC Summer @sobcsociety; the Games hashtags will be fourth time Kamloops Games in Langley. #SOBCGames #Kamloops2017.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 3 Government of B.C. providing vital support to health, youth programs, competition

Thanks to the Government of B.C., athletes like Melanie Sauze-Leduc are finding their balance. An SOBC – Langley athlete, Sauze- Leduc attended a Healthy Athletes screening in North Vancouver with her parents. She participated in FUNfitness screenings, which look to assess and improve an athlete’s flexibility, functional strength, and aerobic screenings has been one of the outcomes of opportunities for Special Olympics athletes capacity. this funding, and has helped to address the and coaches. It was here she learned she has issues with unique health needs of people with intellectual SOBC has also been able to increase youth balance, which may have been the reason she disabilities. programming, giving more opportunities was having trouble riding a bicycle. Financially, between the government’s for athletes of all ages to experience the “That was the most valuable part of it. funding of sport and funds received through transformative power of sport. They gave us some exercises to help with her Community Gaming Grants from the Gaming The Government of B.C.’s Sport Branch has balance,” Sauze-Leduc said. “It’s very valuable Policy Enforcement Branch, SOBC received also been a tremendous source of assistance information.” more than $367,000 in 2016. SOBC Locals also and resources to SOBC. Understanding and Support from The Government of B.C. received gaming grants to support their year- supporting SOBC’s goals, Sport Branch staff has allowed SOBC to offer life-changing round programs. have been working hard to open doors and experiences and programs to athletes across This significant level of funding is much inform us of other resources, contacts, and the province. Expanding Healthy Athletes appreciated and put to good use in expanding opportunities. This is invaluable as we expand opportunities. Funds programs, reach out to more athletes, increase received help reduce the number and quality of competitions, and costs of programs and create opportunities. competitions, host SOBC is extremely grateful for the support sport camps and events, of the Government of B.C. If you have a transport athletes and moment, thank your local MLA for this support coaches, and create new as it truly makes a difference.

SOBC – Golden athlete Sebastian Gylander visited MLA Norm Jessica and Janet Lehtonen of SOBC – Keremeos and SOBC – South MacDonald to share his story and our gratitude for the Government Okanagan’s Kyle Sanderson and Lee Chic spent time with MLA Linda Larson to of B.C.’s support of Special Olympics. explain the impact of the Province’s support.

4 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Special Olympics Team Canada 2017 Sending heartfelt congratulations to the 15 the team’s Special Olympics BC athletes, seven coaches, athletes, coaches, one mission staff member, and one wax and mission staff technician who have earned spots on Team from all across Canada for the 2017 Special Olympics World the country. The Winter Games in Austria! first training The hardworking team members earned camp involved

their places through their performances at theGarth Vickers, SOBC – Kelowna the snowshoeing, 2016 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games speed skating, in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador. and floor hockey The team members from SOBC join the Special teams; the second

Olympics Team Canada roster of 110 athletes, brought together Garth Vickers, SOBC – Kelowna 35 coaches and mission staff, two team the alpine skiing, managers, and one Chef de Mission, and will cross country compete in Austria from March 14 to 25, 2017. skiing, and figure SOBC – Surrey athlete Susan Wang is part skating teams. of a big B.C. contingent on the national alpine SOBC Region skiing team, alongside SOBC – Victoria’s 5 Coordinator Michael Langridge and SOBC – Kimberley/ Darren Inouye, Cranbrook’s Roxana Podrasky, Jonathan the mission staff Robins, and Erin Thom as well as Head Coach member for Team SO Team Canada cross country skiers Justin Sigal, Tracey Melesko, and Randy Scott of SOBC – North Shore and coach Canada’s figure Francis Stanley training in Kelowna. Mark Schnurr of SOBC – Coquitlam. Wang is skaters, said the thrilled to be advancing to her first World Games. May training camp was a great experience, and “It was very much a family atmosphere, even “I can’t believe I’m going to the world level,” the three skaters from B.C. – Alexander Pang though it’s a big deal. People got the job done Wang told Surrey’s The Now newspaper. of SOBC – Vancouver, Darlene Jakubowski of and had fun doing it,” Inouye said. “[Skiing is] my passion. I love speed and the SOBC – Fort St. John, and Marc Theriault of Inouye said both he and the B.C. skaters rush of adventure. I go super fast. It takes all of SOBC – Surrey – did “extremely well.” The team are “over the moon” about being part of the my stress away. Skiing really helps me so much.” members had opportunities to train together national team. “It’s a ton of fun. It’s a pretty big In May, the 148 members of Team Canada in their sports and also enjoy getting to know honour to move up the ladder, and to see these 2017 participated in training camps at each other through the informal interactions guys do their thing,” Inouye said. Ontario’s Teen Ranch, which brought together and meals.

Listed here by sport and alphabetically by last name, the national team members from SOBC are:

Alpine Skiing Figure Skating Mission Staff Athletes SOBC Local Athletes SOBC Local Darren Inouye SOBC Region 5 Coordinator Michael Langridge Victoria Darlene Jakubowski Fort St. John Roxana Podrasky Kimberley/Cranbrook Alexander Pang Vancouver Jonathan Robins Kimberley/Cranbrook Marc Theriault Surrey Erin Thom Kimberley/Cranbrook Coach Susan Wang Surrey Elizabeth Roman Surrey Coaches SOBC Local Mark Schnurr Coquitlam Snowshoeing Randy Scott, Head Coach North Shore Athlete SOBC Local Tony Wilkinson Kelowna Cross Country Skiing Coaches SOBC Local Athletes SOBC Local Maureen Hunter Campbell River Dennis Lynch Nanaimo David Wilkinson Kelowna Tracey Melesko Kelowna

Justin Sigal Vernon Speed Skating Francis Stanley Kelowna Athletes SOBC Local Coach SOBC Local Paige Norton Abbotsford Ray Huson Penticton Matthew Williams Langley

Wax Technician Coach SOBC Local Garth Vickers Kelowna Donna Bilous, SOBC Region 3 Coordinator Snowshoer Tony Wilkinson at the national Head Coach team training camp.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 5 Team BC delivered at 2016 Special Olympics Canada Games

Alpine skiing 7 gold, 7 silver, 6 bronze + super PBs “Skiing is my passion. I love to go really fast. … I was so surprised [to win gold in slalom on the first day of competition.] Today was amazing. All the races were so fun.” — Athlete Susan Wang of SOBC – Surrey

“Special Olympics athletes are the best, and they make the rest of us better people!” — Head Coach Randy Scott of SOBC – North Shore

The Lower Mainland, Island, and northern members of Team BC 2016 prior to flying off to Corner Brook!

The 2016 Special Olympics Canada Winter and floor hockey, and a B.C. podium sweep in Games took Team BC from sea to sea for the the 2.5-kilometre classic cross country skiing first time, and the 126 athletes delivered M3 division by Vernon’s Justin Sigal (gold) and outstanding performances on the Rock. Team Prince George’s Josh Pudney (silver) and Danny

BC 2016 earned 120 medals and achieved many Lafreniere (bronze). Emma Woo personal bests competing in seven sports at “We are so thrilled with the results – both the Special Olympics Canada Games in Corner the personal bests and medals,” Team BC 2016 Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, from Chef de Mission Leslie Thornley said. “We March 1 to 5. really are so pleased with what the athletes did Jonathan Robins of SOBC – Kimberley/ Team BC 2016 was comprised of 126 and how they represented us.” Cranbrook finishing a race in style. athletes, 42 volunteer coaches, and 10 The 2016 National Games were the first mission staff from 31 communities around to be held in Newfoundland and Labrador the province. After working hard over the in the 47-year history of Special Olympics preceding year both in their sport-specific Canada Games, and the local volunteers and training and on their fitness and nutrition, supporters provided an exceptional experience Team BC members were very prepared to for the more than 950 delegation members compete in Corner Brook, and they did their from Canada’s 10 provinces and two of three province proud. territories. Highlights included the triple gold medal Turn to page 5 to read about the members performances by speed skater Paige Norton of Team BC 2016 who qualified for Team Emma Woo of Abbotsford, cross country skier Francis Canada 2017 based on the performances in Stanley of Kelowna, figure skater Marc Corner Brook! Theriault of Surrey, and alpine skier Michael Team BC 2016 full results, roster, photos, Langridge of Victoria, as well as the two and videos: specialolympics.bc.ca/team- Alpine skiing athletes and coaches enjoying exciting all-B.C. gold-medal games in curling bc-2016. Marble Mountain.

6 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Curling Floor hockey Quesnel Lightning, gold Vancouver Storm, gold BC Islanders, silver Kootenays Storm, silver Surrey Rocks, 4th BC Vipers, silver Sunshine Coast Curlers, 5th

“I have to tell you something about the Quesnel Lightning team that came home from Corner Brook with the gold medal. As with any team game, everyone has to do their part,

and this team was no different, whether it Darren Inouye was putting rocks into the house, sweeping for the right weight, or advising the skip, but in curling, it often comes down to the ability of the skip to stay calm and make the right Kootenays Storm players charging hard. shot when it counts. On our team that was the

Ray Huson job of Glenda Melnychuk... [Her] performance would have to be considered outstanding.” “What I like about Special Olympics is getting Team BC cross country skiing podium sweep starring Justin Sigal of SOBC – Vernon (gold) — Coach Rick Prosk of SOBC – Quesnel to go to other parts of the world and meeting and SOBC – Prince George’s Josh Pudney and new people.” Danny Lafreniere (silver and bronze)! — BC Vipers player Jason Mills of SOBC – Nanaimo Cross country skiing 11 gold, 13 silver, 9 bronze + heaps of PBs “I’ve seen a marked improvement [in our team]. “The athletes made their coaches and all We have come a long way from qualifiers to of Team BC proud. We’re really happy with Provincials to here.” everyone – they excelled.” — Vancouver Storm player Mathew Schmiing of — Head Coach Garth Vickers of SOBC – Vancouver SOBC – Kelowna “The [Kootenays Storm] team was excited. As Morgan Hunter “High winds challenged all of the athletes, but soon as we found out that they were sending they powered through – there were so many Sunshine Coast Curlers: coaches Bill Scobbie us to Newfoundland, we started practicing and Susan Storry with athletes Richard Lang, performances to be proud of.” pretty hard. … I don’t think you could get more Michele Lacroix, Lance Barker, Thomas White, — Mission staff Jean Tetarenko, of a complete team.” and Dale Eckert. SOBC Region 6 Coordinator — Coach Derek Taylor of SOBC – Grand Forks “Making friends from all over B.C. and Canada” is the most memorable Special Olympics Figure skating experience for BC Islanders skip Michael Booth 7 gold, 4 silver of SOBC – Port Alberni. “I felt quite surprised about getting myself gold.” — Athlete Alexander Pang of SOBC – Vancouver “By athletes being part of this sport program

Jean Tetarenko it enhances their lives in so many ways. We are “I love sports and always try my best at more than just a sports organization.” everything I do.” —Coach Sheila Snell of SOBC – Surrey — Athlete Michael Phillips of SOBC – Nanaimo

“I consider Special Olympics to be my Cross country skiing athletes and coaches had second family.” a blast in Corner Brook. — Coach Art Peck of SOBC – Nanaimo

Draft an Athlete Sponsors:

Andrew Mahon Foundation Prince George RCMP BC Association of Chiefs of Police Royal Canadian Legion #171 Cherald Tutt Royal Canadian Legion #43 Coquitlam RCMP Royal Canadian Legion #83 Delta Police Department Royal Canadian Legion Delta #61 Gord Kelly Scholarship Fund Still Family Investors Group - Nelson Transit Police Investors Group Financial Services Inc. UPS Canada - Richmond Lions Club - Steller’s Jay Vancouver Police Department Darlene Jakubowski of SOBC – Fort St. John MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. Victoria Police Department precise on ice. continued on next page

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 7 continued from previous page Snowshoeing Team BC 2016 boosted 2 gold, 9 silver, 7 bronze + so many huge PBs “Thank you everyone who has supported us and by Honorary GM believes in Special Olympics. Special Olympics is about more than sport. It is about changing and Randy Smallwood challenging the world one moment at a time. Randy Smallwood, President and CEO Thank you for being part of our family and of Silver Wheaton and a member of the allowing us to share some of our special moments.” Special Olympics BC Board of Directors, — Mission staff George Maclagan was named Team BC 2016’s Honorary General Manager and joined the team in “My daughter Terri Carelius has been with Corner Brook to cheer them on. Special Olympics for 20 years. It has been a

Smallwood took the time to attend lifeline for her. She has developed many skills Emma Woo several team training camps during and confidence. I want to send a big thank you All thumbs up from Team BC alpine skiers! the months leading up to the Games, to all the coaches who give up their free time encouraging the athletes and coaches to work with the athletes. They truly are a and assisting with training exercises and blessing and without them these Games would logistics. not be possible.” “I’m honoured to be selected for this — Sandra Carelius, mother of Team BC role, and am very much looking forward and SOBC – Victoria athlete Terri to the Games,” Smallwood said prior to the Games. “I feel that B.C. has one of the best Special Olympics programs in Canada, if not in North America, and I look forward to supporting the team and joining them in Corner Brook.” Smallwood generously supports SOBC through his efforts as a member Joanne March of the Board of Directors since 2012 and through his work with the Sports SOBC – Quesnel’s Cory Melnychuk and SOBC – Vancouver’s Chantal Chan ready to race. Celebrities Festival presented by Silver Wheaton, the annual gala for SOBC Tina Giesbrecht and the Canucks for Kids Fund that has William Thatcher of SOBC – Trail chasing down raised more than $4 million to date. a competitor. Silver Wheaton is a significant supporter of Special Olympics, as the Speed skating Presenting Sponsor of the Sports 13 gold, 8 silver, 12 bronze + reams of PBs Celebrities Festival and an ongoing “Out of a possible 46 medals the speed skating major sponsor of the Goldcorp team could win, we took home 33! Thirteen Invitational Golf Tournament. gold, eight silver, 12 bronze. Way to go team. Thanks to all the coaches for a great week and to all the training coaches who worked so hard with your athletes over the past year for them to be the best they could be. Great performances and a ton of personal bests!!” Joanne March — Head Coach Donna Bilous, Cross country skiers Dennis Lynch of SOBC – Nanaimo, SOBC Region 3 Coordinator Shelly Poland of SOBC – Golden, and SOBC – Kelowna’s Kirk Gawryluk and Katarina Gerhardt.

Honorary General Manager Randy Smallwood presenting Team BC speed skater Eric Bruneau with a hard-earned Speed skating athletes, coaches, and mission staff taking in the sights. medal. Sarah Maxwell of SOBC – Victoria speeding to the finish line.

8 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Darren Inouye Richard Lindstrom Richard

The gold-medal-winning Quesnel Lightning curling The victorious Vancouver Storm floor hockey team. Team BC superfans: sport performance expert team with Premier Christy Clark, Cariboo North MLA Jacques Thibault, Team BC Honorary General Coralee Oakes, and Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson. Manager and SOBC Chair Randy Smallwood, Patti Hirst, and SOBC Vice Chair Ted Hirst. Darren Inouye Darren

The BC Vipers flash their hard-earned MaclaganGeorge

Morgan Hunter Morgan silver medals. Your Team BC Snow Jets! Snowshoeing The BC Islanders curling team receiving their silver athletes and coaches exploring Corner Brook. medals: Michael Booth and Cody Booth of SOBC – Port Alberni, Ken Davidson, Sherri Lines, and Shelley Marinus of SOBC – Comox Valley, and coaches Cheryl Clay of SOBC – Campbell River and Art Peck of SOBC – Nanaimo. Jean Tetarenko

SOBC – Victoria Team BC members received roses upon their return. Jessica Chapelski

Smiling skaters Arianna Phillips of SOBC – Nanaimo, Darlene Jakubowski of SOBC – Fort St. John, Alexandra Magee and Stephanie Divin of SOBC – Surrey, and Laura Dale of

Morgan Hunter Morgan SOBC – Terrace. Surrey Rocks curlers Dale Wright, Steven Dew, David Baxter, and Jay Laitar of SOBC – Surrey and Danny Pace of SOBC – Victoria. Darren Inouye

Team BC mission staff Darren Inouye, George Maclagan, Inouye Darren Georgina McIntosh, Jill Harris, Emma Woo, Leslie Kootenays Storm floor hockey players Maclean Tina Giesbrecht Thornley, Shawn Fevens, Tom Norton, Jean Tetarenko, Brown, Steven Stirling, Kathy Schmidt, and Tegan Raines of SOBC – Prince George and Morgan Hunter. James Warman of SOBC – Creston. charging through a race.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 9 2016 Special Olympics BC award winners

Athletic Achievement Award Grassroots Coach Award in their fitness and nutrition programs. A dedicated and accomplished swimmer, Special Olympics BC – Vernon’s Janny Jung is As Assistant Coach and team manager of Special Olympics BC – Richmond’s Magnus the Head Coach of Club Fit and snowshoeing SOBC – Vernon’s athletics program, Jung plays Batara found himself at the top of the and Assistant Coach and team manager for an integral role with the team. This includes podium at the 2015 Special Olympics World athletics. In these roles she has worked to keeping the team organized with paperwork, Summer Games in Los Angeles, an incredible create an inclusive experience for all athletes, providing valuable feedback and direction to four times, capturing the gold medal in the counsel athletes on nutrition and healthy athletes, and supporting the program’s 100m breaststroke, 200m breaststroke, 100m living, and help athletes overcome their fears Head Coach. butterfly, and 4x100m medley relay. through visualization. Congratulations to Janny and nominees Batara is a talented athlete with a long list Jung is a dedicated and compassionate Clem Andrews (SOBC – Surrey), Chuck of accomplishments. His strong work ethic coach who regularly uses her skills to help Bertrand (SOBC – Sunshine Coast), Davin and fun-loving attitude have made him a athletes overcome nervousness, gain Fung (SOBC – Vancouver), Meghan Jamieson role model to his teammates, and he is the confidence, and perform to their potential. A (SOBC – Richmond), Aaron Leontowich (SOBC – deserving winner of SOBC’s 2016 Athletic mentor to coaches and athletes in her Local, Kamloops), Ricky Long (SOBC – Victoria), Vivian Achievement Award. Jung is the worthy winner of SOBC’s 2016 Marsh (SOBC – Fort St. John), Emily Mittermayr Grassroots Coach Award. (SOBC – Kimberley/Cranbrook), Bill Scobbie Jung tailored the Club Fit program in (SOBC – Port Alberni), Dave Showers (SOBC – Vernon to better suit the needs of the Local’s Richmond), Susan Storry (SOBC – Powell River), athletes by creating two levels: one that takes Sue Rowe (SOBC – Golden), Bev Whitehead a developmental approach and another that (SOBC – Comox Valley). challenges athletes with higher skill levels. This change has proven to be very successful, and Howard Carter Award athletes in both levels have made significant improvements in their skills, balance, and Longtime coach Garth Vickers has been SOBC core strength. – Kelowna’s cross-country skiing Head Coach

Lisa Jamieson A passionate and hardworking coach, Jung since 1997-98, and has served as the sport’s built SOBC – Vernon’s snowshoeing program Provincial Coach for many years, where he from the ground up. This year, Jung took the has championed development, growth, new program’s athletes to a friendly competition. techniques, and opportunities for athletes and This sparked a strong desire in the athletes to coaches. Magnus Batara receiving the SOBC Athletic develop their skills and become more involved Vickers is an outstanding mentor known for Achievement Award from Richmond Mayor his exceptional ability to bring out the best Malcolm Brodie. in each athlete, his dedicated leadership for Batara’s self-discipline and independence athletes and coaches competing at Provincial, has grown dramatically over his nine years with National, and World Games, his instrumental SOBC. Always looking to improve, he devotes a work to support the development of youth great deal of time and effort to developing his programs and fellow coaches, and his genuine skills in the pool. caring for his athletes. After 18-plus years as A versatile athlete, Batara has participated an outstanding coach, SOBC is proud to name in floor hockey, soccer, athletics, basketball, Vickers as the winner of the 2016 Howard swimming, and Club Fit during his time with Carter Award. SOBC. He won a silver medal with the Team BC As a former special education teacher, floor hockey team at the 2012 Special Olympics Vickers brings invaluable understanding and Canada Winter Games in St. Albert, Alta. skills to the table, and he is able to coach Batara has received recognition in his and develop athletes at all levels, not just community for his amazing accomplishments. provincial and national teams. His athletes love This includes recently winning the inaugural him – he is truly considered their friend and he Richmond News Sportsperson of the Year considers them friends, his nominators said. Award at the Richmond Sports Awards, and “The athletes and their success is always at representing his community as a torchbearer the front of Garth’s mind. He finds a way for in the 2015 Pan Am Games Torch Relay. each athlete to achieve success and improve, Congratulations to Magnus and nominees regardless of their ability level,” his nominators Nicky Chow (SOBC – Richmond), Cory Duhaime wrote. “He helps his athletes learn and fosters (SOBC – Delta), Krista Meikle (SOBC – Victoria), their growth not only in sport, but helps them Tanya Norman (SOBC – Powell River), Alex Pang translate that into their everyday life. This (SOBC – Vancouver), Shelly Poland (SOBC – Janny Jung (right) receiving the Grassroots confidence can be seen in Garth’s athletes.” Golden), Jonathan Robins (SOBC – Kimberley/ Coach Award from SOBC – Vernon athlete Vickers is also known as an outstanding Cranbrook), Darien Tielemans (SOBC – Cowichan Stacey Madden and Executive Committee mentor to other coaches, and as an Valley) Susan Wang (SOBC – Surrey). member Noelle Typusiak. instrumental figure in the development of

10 Special Olympics BC Bulletin youth programs. He has devoted great skill and SOBC athletes, Maveety helped develop provides advice and support for teammates care to helping create, grow, and support the an adapted Zumba program and a weight- when they are having problems at practice or SOBC – Kelowna youth programs. training program at the local YMCA-YWCA. in their personal lives. Congratulations to Garth and nominees The programs have been a great success, with A friendly, positive, and helpful athlete, Nikki Apps (SOBC – Comox Valley), Greg Bodin great attendance and lots of smiling faces. Myers is a valued teammate and a pleasure (SOBC – Coquitlam), Glen Ellison (SOBC – Congratulations to Michael and nominees to coach. Myers always encourages fellow Richmond), Craig Hikida (SOBC – Vancouver), Andrea Boyes (SOBC – Victoria), Jo Buck (SOBC athletes to have fun and to do their best, and Randy James (SOBC – Comox Valley), Courtney – Terrace), Joan Gerhardt (SOBC – Kelowna), she is the deserving recipient of SOBC’s 2016 Keith Motz (SOBC – Delta), Steve Norton Anita Hui (SOBC – Vancouver), Leo Mittermayr Spirit of Sport Award. (SOBC – Kimberley/Cranbrook), Marie Telder (SOBC – Kimberley/Cranbrook), Karen Myers “She is a joy to coach as she never (SOBC – Sunshine Coast), Wilma VanHage (SOBC – Prince Rupert), Rick Stanley (SOBC – complains, always competes to the best of (SOBC – Prince George). Nanaimo), Chuck Yee (SOBC – Richmond). her abilities, and is not afraid to try new things. She always has a smile on her face, offering Greg Veale to help as she sees is needed,” her nominators wrote. Myers is a proud Special Olympics athlete who is grateful to the volunteers who support SOBC. Every year she writes and delivers a speech at SOBC – Port Alberni’s year-end banquet thanking volunteers for their dedication and commitment. She does this by herself, and asks the Local’s Executive Committee for permission to give the speech. A dedicated ambassador for SOBC, Myers can often be seen wearing her Special Olympics jacket in her community. Last year, she brought the silver medal she won in floor hockey at the 2015 Special Olympics BC Winter Garth Vickers receiving the Howard Carter Award Michael Maveety receiving the President’s Games in Kamloops to her work. This inspired from SOBC – Kelowna Local Coordinator Sue Foisy. Award from SOBC – Kamloops Local her coworkers to post a photo on Facebook Coordinator Marilyn McLean. congratulating her and her team. President’s Award Congratulations to Simone and nominees In his almost seven years with SOBC – Spirit of Sport Award Julie Black (SOBC – Cowichan Valley), Dean Kamloops, Fundraising Coordinator Michael Special Olympics BC – Port Alberni’s Simone Cake (SOBC – Quesnel), Jeremy Cheverie (SOBC Maveety has demonstrated his dedication and Myers has been involved with SOBC for – Victoria), Tyler Coe (SOBC – Delta), Dawn passion for Special Olympics by consistently 13 years and currently participates in 5-pin Hadler (SOBC – Salt Spring Island), Chelsea stepping up to help his Local in any way he can. bowling, swimming, basketball, curling, floor Kaake (SOBC – Delta), Roxana Podrasky (SOBC Maveety leads by example and encourages hockey, athletics, and softball. She is a caring – Kimberley/Cranbrook), Adrian Rosen (SOBC everyone around him to be the best they can teammate who is a friend to everyone at her – Prince George), Brad Smith (SOBC – Delta), be. His calm demeanour, caring personality, Local. She calls to check up on fellow athletes Dallas Stager (SOBC – Vancouver), Kelsey and responsiveness to the needs of others when they are sick and miss practice, and she Thomson (SOBC – Richmond). have made him a well-liked and highly valued member of the SOBC – Kamloops community. A dedicated volunteer, a caring coach, and an inspiring role model, Maveety has shown himself to be a valuable asset to his Local and is the winner of SOBC’s 2016 President’s Award. As Fundraising Coordinator, Maveety has played an important role in supporting his Local’s athletes, volunteers, and programs through his hard work and creativity. He coordinates all the national fundraising campaigns in Kamloops, and has developed his own successful signature events that have

helped his Local raise funds and increase its Linda Scobbie exposure in the community. Maveety works hard to support sport programs at SOBC – Kamloops, including coaching the 10-pin bowling and bocce teams, assisting with athlete registration, Simone Myers (second from left) receiving her award with Anne Evans and Linda Scobbie, SOBC – and ordering uniforms for many of the Local’s Port Alberni Volunteer Coordinator and Local Coordinator, and Michelle Cruickshank, SOBC teams. To provide more opportunities for Manager, Community Development for Region 6.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 11 Goldcorp Invitational creates meaningful support for Special Olympics BC

The 2016 Goldcorp Invitational Golf Tournament was a great success again this year, attracting 250 of Vancouver’s corporate and business elite to hit the green at Northview Golf & Country Club in support of Special Olympics BC. 2016 marked the 10th year with Goldcorp as lead sponsor of this significant fundraising event, and President & CEO David Garofalo reminded the tournament participants what a difference they make with their generous sponsorship and donations. “What you’re doing today is very meaningful,” Garofalo said. “It’ll perpetuate the good things that Special Olympics BC does here in the province and in the community. I’m honoured to be involved today.” Held on June 21, 2016, this fully stocked golf experience included two simultaneous tournaments followed by an evening of inspiration where participants enjoyed a full dinner, Goldcorp Invitational golfers congratulating SOBC – Surrey athlete entertainment, live Malcolm Borsoi after he sunk a putt for their team. and silent auctions, and a moving thank you. We’re going such an impact on the lives of the people we speech from parent to probably come back try to help,” Goldcorp Chairman Ian Telfer said. Sandra Hamel, every year, maybe for 25 We are deeply grateful for the continued mother of 2½-year- years, and we’ll be able support of Goldcorp and the tournament’s old Esme, an SOBC Goldcorp President & CEO David Garofalo and to tell you lots of stories, generous sponsors. – Nanaimo Active SOBC – Surrey athlete Michaela Robinson. but I appreciate just the Start athlete. short time we’ve been Hamel told the Goldcorp Invitational part of the program [to date]. It has helped our audience about the important growth family and helped Esme,” said Hamel. that Esme has experienced and enjoyed Goldcorp has had a significant impact with through her first months in Active Start, and Special Olympics athletes and programs with she thanked all the tournament sponsors, two gifts of $1 million to SOBC, the first in participants, and volunteers as well as SOBC 2010-2014 and the second for 2014-2018, and coaches. much of this funding has supported these “If you’re here supporting Special Olympics important youth programs. The Hamel family with daughter Esme. financially or volunteering, I just really want to “It’s such an important cause, and it makes

JYSK Canada bringing Special Olympics support home Homeware retailer JYSK has been a great Canada through select product sales and partner of Special Olympics since 2004. In 2016, Draft an Athlete. We are so grateful to JYSK has supported our athletes by raising JYSK for their ongoing commitment to $100,000 for Special Olympics Special Olympics!

12 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Thank you to the supporters of the 2016 Goldcorp Invitational

Presenting Sponsor

Greens Sponsor Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsors

Event Sponsors

Tournament Committee Participating Teams On-Course Sponsors and Christine Marks, Goldcorp AIG Canada Korn Ferry International Event Partners Colin MacKinnon Allwest Insurance KPMG Anderson Air Greg Keith, Dueck Auto Group Anderson Air London Drugs Canuel Caterers Greg Noble B2Gold Macquarie Capital Markets Canada Ltd Dueck Auto Group Jason Madill, Ernst & Young LLP Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP Marsh Canada London Drugs Insurance Michael Campbell, Chair BMO Capital Markets Maxam Capital Management Pacific Coastal Michael Coyle, Replay Resorts Inc. Canaccord Genuity Precision Media Merrill Lynch Canada Inc Sam Lee, CIBC Cassels Brock Queen Charlotte Lodge Dan Howe, Special Olympics BC Cathy Campbell New Gold Replay Resorts Christina Hadley, Special Olympics BC CIBC World Markets Inc Ozzie Jurock Shaw Sabey Deloitte Pacific Newspaper Group Sugar Mountain DLA Piper (Canada) LLP Premium Brands Volkswagen Canada Dueck Auto Group RBC Capital Markets Ernst & Young Scotiabank Fiore Management and Advisory Corp Silver Standard Resources Fluor GMP Securities Silver Wheaton Goldcorp TD Securities Great Panther Silver Limited Telford Financial Hatch White Bear Capital Corp. HSBC White Paper Company

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 13 Stories from Special Olympics BC Locals News from SOBC – 100 Mile House Snapshots from SOBC – Kimberley/ By Denise Thiessen, Local Coordinator Cranbrook Greetings from 100 Mile House! We have had Submitted by Missy Besanger, PR Coordinator a bit of excitement this year as we now have The group photo is from the Special Olympics new owners at our bowling alley. They have BC – Kimberley/Cranbrook 30th anniversary cleaned up and done a bunch of renovating celebration and Law Enforcement Torch Run to the building inside and out. We now have event, and the other picture is of our three electronic scoring! No more paper and pencils amazing athletes who are going to the 2017 needed, and new shoes for rental! Larry and Special Olympics World Winter Games in Sherree are awesome people and we have a lot Austria: Jonathan Robins, Erin Thom, and of fun on Tuesday nights. Roxana Podrasky. We also had two new athletes join us this year. Welcome Josh and Jordan! We have been busy with fundraising as well lately. We recently finished a very successful raffle! Great prizes were donated by 100 Mile businesses and residents. We host a tree hunt day in December in partnership with Timbermart, where all proceeds from tree sales go to our Local. We also have a Christmas decoration sale. Our athletes get together and create wonderful gifts using Christmas coffee mugs and pine tree branches. Our best news, however, is that we have one athlete who qualified to compete in golf at the 2017 Special Olympics BC Summer Games in Kamloops, and five athletes who qualified for bowling! We are very proud of our athletes and wish them well. We will definitely be there for the cheering squad! News from SOBC – Langley We also have new owners at our Marmot The Special Olympics BC – Langley Athletes at McLeod Athletic Park. The money that was Ridge Golf Course, and we hope to continue Council is very active and ensures that our raised will go towards uniforms, equipment, our golf program there in the spring. events are published. Here are a few articles tournaments, and whatever else is needed for In short, we are still a pretty active group and they’ve had published in the Aldergrove Star. the sports that SOBC – Langley offers. The all enjoy being a part of Special Olympics! Walkathon raises $6,000 for Special total money raised was estimated at $6,000 Olympics: On May 15 the weather held up well and still counting. The athletes, coaches, and Story from SOBC – Coquitlam for the participants who took part in the fifth volunteers thank everyone who donated By Sheila Hogan, Local Coordinator annual SOBC – Langley Walkathon Fundraiser money to this year’s walkathon. Pictured here are athletes Tricia Duff and Nasheena Virani. Nasheena had a little stumble at a 5-pin bowling practice a few weeks ago, and since then Trisha has held her hand walking up and back on the lane for each of her turns. Teamwork! Christopher Lakusta

Township of Langley Mayor Jack Froese with Township Councillor Blair Whitmarsh leading the way at the start of the fifth annual SOBC – Langley Walkathon Fundraiser.

14 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Bocce at Special Olympics: May 28 was a Torch Run: On May 31, the 2016 Law Regional Qualifiers in all of them. For our very wet rainy day for the participants that Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics basketball, golf, and track programs, this was took part in the Bocce Regional Qualifier BC came to Langley. The run started and our first time at a qualifier. for Region 3 at Willoughby Community finished at the Langley RCMP detachment. Forty of our 60 athletes attended at Park in Langley. Top teams from this The Law Enforcement Torch Run is a global least one qualifier, and many then had to Regional Qualifier qualified to compete movement that raises vital funds and awareness choose which sport they’d compete in at against top teams from different Regions for Special Olympics. SOBC – Langley athletes the 2017 SOBC Summer Games as they at the 2017 Special Olympics BC Summer involved in the LETR run were Chris Lakusta, qualified to compete in more than one Games. Communities that took part were Joshua Low, Jaykob Low, Christine Magnusson, sport. As of December 2016, our regional Langley, Surrey, Coquitlam, Abbotsford, Ridge Nicole Vandevelde, and Andrea Zonneveld. To team contribution stood at 27! We have two Meadows, and Chilliwack. read more about the BC Law Enforcement Torch swimmers, two track athletes, and three Run, please turn to page 30. bowlers, who qualified to compete in the 2017 Provincial Games, as well as 20 soccer players News from SOBC – Quesnel set to compete as Quesnel Fury I and Fury By Rick Prosk, Program Coordinator II. They will be joined in Kamloops by nine 2016 was a successful year for Special coaches. Olympics BC – Quesnel. A definite highlight Another first for SOBC – Quesnel took place was our athletes’ success at the 2016 Special in December as our recently resurrected floor Olympics Canada Winter Games. It was the hockey team travelled to Prince George to first time ANY Quesnel athletes had qualified play for the first time since 2007. In January to attend, and ALL eight athletes came home 2017, we will co-host, along with the Quesnel with medals. School District, a “Try-It Day” for students aged Cory Melnychuk won bronze in cross country 11 to 18, in an effort to boost our profile with skiing, and Cherie Swaan and Danny Dodgson the community’s youth. Along with Troll Ski medalled in snowshoeing, with Cherie winning Resort, we will host a “Special Olympics Day” in a silver medal and Danny winning silver and January to introduce (or re-introduce) athletes bronze medals. The highlight was our curling to the sport of alpine skiing. team, which went undefeated to win the gold SOBC – Quesnel continues to support our medal. Congratulations to Glenda Melnychuk, community as we in turn are supported. We Alfred Schotel, Travis Burt, Martin Scriver and raise money for the Salvation Army and Relay Dean Cake… for Life. Our five-year Relay contribution now Christopher Lakusta Other firsts for us this year included hosting stands at more than $18,500. For five years, our first alpine ski meet at Troll Resort, and we have also run a successful ticket raffle, in hosting Regional Qualifiers for soccer and golf. conjunction with Quesnel Pipes and Drums. Both were well attended, the largest events of Last year, all 1,500 tickets were sold! their kind held so far in the north. Our athlete committee now has eight Quesnel has 13 sport programs (alpine members. It has assisted the Local Committee SOBC – Langley athlete Jas Nagra thinks of a skiing, basketball, bowling, Club Fit, cross in revising our dress code and developing play before he rolls the ball to get it close to country skiing, curling, floor hockey, golf, an electronics policy, and will serve as an the pallina in a bocce game. rhythmic gymnastics, snowshoeing, soccer, excellent advisory group. swimming, and track and field). Seven of the 13 Snapshot from SOBC – Nelson are summer sports, and in 2016, we attended Brooke McConnell

Special Olympics BC – Nelson athlete Payton is SOBC – Quesnel’s proud members of Team BC 2016. a participant in the great local youth programs.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 15 supporters of our cause. They have found the time to interact and play alongside athletes in basketball, soccer, and floor hockey so far – although we haven’t got ’em into the pool yet! We were all pleasantly surprised to see rhythmic gymnastics athletes Linsey Davidson, Theresa Presley, and Amanda Boghean on the first page of the SOBC August e-newsletter. The team has worked hard this year to learn all new routines and Linsey Davidson qualified to go to Provincial Games. Our bocce team attended their very first Regional Qualifier this year, won in their division, and will see team members Amber Fenton, Wes Harrison, Candice Garrett, and Darleen Nelson on The big Quesnel contingent that qualified to compete in the 2017 SOBC Summer Games. their way to Provincial Games in summer 2017. The Coast curling team was thrilled to not Year-end report from Sunshine Coast athlete showing his skills only attend their usual bonspiel in January but SOBC – Sunshine Coast in Kamloops. also to host their very first one locally. Teams By Mike Oswald, Athlete Reporter The Douglas College women’s basketball from Langley and Powell River joined in the fun Here is 2016 all neatly wrapped up; it was a team returned to host a skills camp for the and indicated they would like to see this year of many achievements and many firsts on Sechelt and Gibsons teams. They helped happen again. our beautiful Sunshine Coast. them practice skills of shooting, passing, and Finally in softball, the Ravens hosted a fun On the way to a swim meet in Coquitlam, the dribbling. Later in the spring, the local RCMP game locally, travelled to Port Coquitlam team had a chance meeting with BC Lions wide played the Sechelt team in a fun game. for another, and even qualified as a team to receiver Emmanuel Arceneaux. He took time to Our local RCMP members are true participate in the 2017 SOBC Games – but so take a photo with everyone and even posted it on his Facebook page! Swimmers Michael Beckman and Genny Verge travelled to Abbotsford for the 2016 BC Summer Games. Both brought home multiple medals and they, along with Micheal Oswald, Paul Davis, Christel Jensen, and Lindsay Pearson, will be travelling to Kamloops for the 2017 Special Olympics BC Summer Games in Kamloops. The Athletics Regional Qualifier in Langley saw Amber Maher, Bruce Stuart, Genny Verge, and Micheal Oswald showing excellence in their events. Amber Maher also brought home a first-place medal in shot put at the 2016 BC Games. She and Bruce Stuart will be representing the Coast in

Kamloops in July 2017. Tamar Kozlov The Golf Regional Qualifier for Region 5 was once again held on the Coast and organized by Head Coach Chuck Bertrand. Gus Selfie starring SOBC – Sunshine Coast athletes bound for the 2017 Provincial Games with Regional Coordinator Vaughn will be the SOBC – Darren Inouye.

16 Special Olympics BC Bulletin many of their members had already qualified More snapshots from Regional Qualifiers

in other sports they could not make up a Photo courtesy of SOBC – Quesnel team. It shows just how great the drive and determination is in so many of our athletes. As always, none of this would be possible without the contributions of time and effort by the Special Olympics volunteers. Over the years, coaches leave and others take over the reins. Some even come back again because they miss us so much… Some are nominated for special awards; some take the time to attend extra training and performance camps with athletes in tow, bringing home new ideas on how to educate and strengthen their athletes and other coaches. But most of them just show up to every practice every week, rain or shine, to help us be the best we can. The terrific soccer teams that competed in the Soccer Regional Qualifier hosted by SOBC – Quesnel Many thanks to our community for helping in June 2016. out in so many other ways: donations of volunteer time to make food for an event, Photo courtesy of SOBC – Quesnel selling tickets for a fundraiser, money from community individuals and groups, and items that we could not afford to purchase on our own. We couldn’t do it without you. Volunteers rule! Bonspiel recap from SOBC – Victoria By Dave Bodie, Head Coach, SOBC – Victoria curling On Saturday January 23, Special Olympics BC – Victoria held a Region 6 bonspiel at the Glen Meadows Curling Club in North Saanich. The bonspiel was attended by six teams from Victoria, two from Nanaimo, one from

The great Region 8 athletes and coaches who participated in the Golf Regional Qualifier hosted in June 2016.

curling contingent going to the Victoria One, Nanaimo Two, Port Alberni B, 2016 Special Olympics Canada Victoria Four, Campbell River Rock Stars, Winter Games in Corner Brook, Victoria Two, Team BC Islanders, Campbell Newfoundland and Labrador. The River Rock Solid, Victoria Six, Victoria Three, bonspiel also included curlers Team BC Sunshine Coast Curlers, Oceanside, playing for other Team BC teams, Victoria/Port Alberni, Victoria Five, and Port and it provided an opportunity for Alberni A respectively. some of the Region 6 coaches The competition was so close that one or going to the National Games to two ends in the three games played by each meet and talk about the upcoming team could have made the difference between event. first and last, but that’s curling – a game of Because of the distances that a angles and inches to the end! number of teams had to travel, the A great time was had by all and we look Members of the Victoria Five rink enjoying the Region 6 bonspiel hosted by SOBC – Victoria. need to work around a ferry schedule, and the forward to doing it again next year. Special need to get into the games quickly, a modified thanks goes out to Region 6 Coordinator Jean Oceanside (Parksville Qualicum), two from scoring format was adopted in place of the Tetarenko, whose enthusiasm to learn about Port Alberni, one from Comox Valley, two from normal divisioning system. The participating the sport of curling and willingness to do Campbell River, one from Powell River, and a teams made this a keenly contested bonspiel. whatever was required to get everyone and combined Victoria/Port Alberni team. After all the rocks had been thrown, swept everything together made the tournament a Included in these teams were the BC and counted, all the ends tallied, and all the great success. If we could just get her to stop Islanders and the Sunshine Coast Curlers, wins, ties, and losses noted, Nanaimo One calling the sheets lanes… two teams that are part of Team BC’s came out on top, followed very closely by

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 17 Sports Celebrities Festival part of something special

The 2016 Sports Celebrities Festival $4 million to date for SOBC and the Canucks presented by Silver Wheaton turned the for Kids Fund. spotlight on the abilities of Special Olympics SOBC – Creston athlete Collison and BC athletes and the power of sport, while Vancouver Canucks SCF ambassador Brandon raising vital funds for the Canucks for Kids Sutter brought the audience to their feet with Fund and SOBC. their moving remarks. Sutter’s cousin Chris and As SOBC athlete speaker Frances Collison close family friend Mikey are Special Olympics told the crowd, “In Special Olympics, people athletes. see Frances first, not Down syndrome with “Through Chris and Mikey I have seen its challenges. They see firsthand how important Special Olympics Frances Collison and what is. The confidence and friendships that are she is capable of! Special built are so meaningful, and I’m very proud to Olympics unites and be part of this special event tonight,” Sutter strengthens every one of said, before introducing Collison as a recent us in this room.” addition “to my list of athletes who inspire Held on November me.” 21 at the Vancouver Collison spoke powerfully about the fun, Convention Centre, friends, and fame that Special Olympics has the 18th annual gala brought to her life, along with a healthy brought together more lifestyle and increased confidence and skills. Langley athlete Matthew Williams than 650 supporters “When other people, who have the same and Sportsnet Central host Caroline Cameron, the event’s outstanding along with SOBC disability as I have, see me doing Special Masters of Ceremonies. athletes, the entire Olympics sports that they think are impossible Vancouver Canucks for them to do, they see hope. They hope that roster, and other someday, they will be able to do that sport top B.C. sports celebrities for a too, just like I do!” Collison said. “I think this meaningful and fun evening. This inspiring and happens for Brandon Sutter too. Lots of young interactive event has raised more than hockey players look up to him and want

Canuck Loui Eriksson and SOBC – Abbotsford powerlifter Canucks Jayson Megna and Michael Chaput working the SCF games room Jamie Robinson flex for the cameras. with SOBC – Langley athlete Nicole VandeVelde.

18 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Canucks SCF ambassador Brandon Sutter and SOBC athlete speaker Frances Collison nail their parade pose.

to play hockey just like he does. We are role models both in our own way! This makes me feel proud. I feel so lucky Olympic rowers Will Crothers, Patricia Obee, Lindsay Jennerich, to be part of something and Gabe Bergen were part of the star-studded night. so special!” The Sports Celebrities Festival is one of a small handful of mandatory Paralympic champion events for the Vancouver and B.C. Minister for serve as the stellar Masters of Ceremonies, Canucks, which is a Social Development and Canucks broadcaster Joey Kenward powerful symbol of and Social helped highlight the evening’s celebrities. respect for Special Innovation Michelle Canadian comedy icon Brent Butt cracked up Olympics athletes. It was a Stilwell; Vancouver the audience with his standup set and joined privilege to have the entire Whitecaps FC Kenward to moderate a Canucks Hockey Canucks roster once again midfielder Ben Hotstove that gave direct access into the Vancouver Police Department Constable Cam participating in the event, McKendry and minds of the Canucks leadership group, with Mackay presented the Rolex to the lucky with each player paired President Bob President of Hockey Operations Trevor Linden, winner of the Palladio Jewellers Raffle. with Special Olympics Lenarduzzi; and BC General Manager Jim Benning, and Head Coach athletes for the evening. The current players Lions alumni Angus Reid and Jamie Taras. Willie Desjardins kindly taking the stage. were joined by noted Canucks alumni Jyrki The backing of the Canucks and all the Throughout the night, guests bid on Lumme and Kirk McLean as well as coaches and participating celebrities sends a strong auctions and enjoyed games and activities management. message of inclusion and dignity for individuals while mingling with the celebrities, and TSN The event’s roster of celebrities also with intellectual disabilities. The generosity Radio Vancouver conducted live broadcasting included Olympic rowing medallists Gabe and kindness from all of the event’s celebrities, from the event. Bergen, Will Crothers, Lindsay Jennerich, and sponsors, and participants is truly inspiring. We thank all of the Sports Celebrities Patricia Obee; Olympic soccer medal-winning The event also featured Sportsnet Central Festival sponsors, attendees, and supporters goalkeeper Stephanie Labbé and coach John host Caroline Cameron teaming up with who give so generously each year. Herdman; Olympic BMX racer Tory Nyhaug; SOBC – Langley athlete Matthew Williams to Photos by Jeff Vinnick-Vancouver Canucks

Canuck Ben Hutton, SOBC – Vancouver athlete Mathew Schmiing, and SCF Canuck Brendan Gaunce and SOBC – Chilliwack athlete Organizing Committee member Fiona Keller of Macquarie Mortgages made it Melinda Franson all smiles for the cheering crowd. to the finals of the Heads & Tails game.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 19 Thank you to the supporters of the 2016 Sports Celebrities Festival

Presenting Sponsor Auction Donors Table Purchasers Organizing and 2Story Group Mercedez-Benz North Shore ABC Customs Brokers Advisory Committee Air Canada Meridian Farm Market Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP Co-Chairs Anytime Fitness North Burnaby Metropolis at Metrotown Blue Sky Properties Doug Holtby Aritzia Misch Boutique BMO Capital Markets Blair Shier AspenClean Mission Hill Family Estate Bull, Housser & Tupper LLP Simona Antolak BCAA Mission Kits Restaurant Canaccord Genuity Major Sponsors Mike Boehm Black Hills Estate Winery Newcap Radio Canada Life Diana Campbell Bonnie Ball Nintendo Canadian Poultry Leslie Canavan Brian Burke and Joe Fortes Noel Asmar Consultants Ltd. Seafood & Chophouse Julie Catling Norscot Holdings Canadian Western Bank Brooks Brothers Catherine Cook Northlands Country Club Canucks Sports & Entertainment Carmen de Guzman Burberry and Michael Boehm Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Patrick Drouin Cactus Club Cafe Pacific National Exhibition Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP Gunnar Eggertson Event Sponsors Cadence Cycling Studio Park’N Fly Catling Group Scott Ellis Canadian Broadcast Sales PepsiCo Beverages Canada CIBC Karlene Fraser Canadian Football League Pharmasave Drugs (Pacific) Ltd. CIBC World Markets Inc. Christina Hadley Canucks Sports & Entertainment Pizza Hut (PH Restaurants LP) Community Savings Credit Union Teya Hastie Capilano Golf & Country Club Popeye’s Supplements Cool Air Equipment Rentals and David Alsop Ted Hirst Poplar Grove Winery Deloitte Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Jessica Hoffman Portmanteau Stereo Co. Doug Holtby Castanet and Jay DeMerit Glen Jessup Dueck Auto Group Coastal Culture Sports Predator Ridge Resort Jill Johnston Echo Brand Management Ltd. Copper Point Golf Club Quilts Etc. Home Stephanie Kaye Envision Financial Corus Entertainment Rogers Radio Fiona Keller Ernst & Young LLP David Yan at Envision Financial Save-On-Foods Hugh McKinnon Farris, Vaughn, Wills & De Dutch Randy Smallwood Sea to Sky Gondola Murphy LLP Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Jennifer Traub Shangri-La Hotel First West Leasing Resort and Spa Bob Wilson Shaughnessy Golf and Grant Thornton LLP Enterprise Rent-a-Car Country Club Colin Yakashiro Hodge Family Ethical Bean Coffee SierraSil Health Inc. David Yan JD Sweid Foods Everything Wine Silver Wheaton Kaminsky and Company Fable Special Olympics BC KPMG Fairmont Pacific Rim Special Thanks Squamish Valley Golf Club Lawson Lundell LLP Fortius Sport & Health Aerostream Logistics Staples Canada Majormaki Real Estate Friends of the SCF BC Lions Football Club Strellson Manulife Financial Furry Creek Golf & Country Club Bella Gift Baskets & Florals Ted Hirst Giorgio’s Menswear Ltd. Mirage Hardwood Floors Brent Butt Temper Chocolate & Pastry Golden Eagle Golf Club National Bank Financial Caroline Cameron Teya and Neil Hastie Grant Thornton LLP NBM Group Canucks TV The Cultch Groundwork Athletics Inc. Neptune Bulk Terminals Frances Collison The Falls (Canada) Ltd. Grouse Mountain Resorts Ltd. Go Wireless The Fanzoo Odlum Brown Limited Gunnar Eggertson, Canaccord Greg Forrester and Echo The Movement Studio Genuity PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Brand Management Ltd. The Pint Public House Hawksworth Restaurant Group RBC Capital Markets Hemlock Printers The Town of Creston Home Hardware RCG Group In Any Event Design Media Sponsors Thomas Haas Hootsuite Scotiabank Jeff Vinnick ivivva w. 4th Tommy Europe Fitness Sean Gercsak and Trevor Cragg Joey Kenward JD Sweid Foods Trail Appliances Ltd. Shato Holdings Ltd. John MacDonald, ADESA Auctions Jugo Juice Trevlin Advisory Services Shier Family Matthew Williams KPMG LLP Vancouver Corporate Yoga Silver Wheaton Vancouver Canucks Lamar Transit Advertising Vancouver Whitecaps FC Smythe Ratcliffe Vancouver Canucks Alumni Landmark Selections Vega Stor-More Closet & Blinds Vancouver Convention Warner Music Canada on Long Beach Lodge Resort Target Homes Centre West behalf of Michael Bublé Lucky This Fishing Adventues TD Bank Group Vancouver Whitecaps FC West Coast Fishing Club Lulu Island Winery Ltd. The 2Story Group WestJet And all of the celebrities Majormaki Real Estate The Fanzoo White Spot Ltd. who generously took the time to attend

20 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Dedication and enthusiasm bring Special Olympics back to Williams Lake

Inspired by ongoing enthusiasm from former athletes, Williams Lake volunteers have dedicated themselves to bringing Special Olympics back to their community. Special Olympics BC – Williams Lake began offering programs in 1982, but the Region 8 Local moved into hiatus in recent years due to challenges finding volunteers. Now a new group of champions are generously giving their time to revive the Local and re-establish programs for the athletes who have many fond Special Olympics memories and a desire and need for these programs. Program Coordinator Susan Means said the local individuals with intellectual disabilities who have participated in Special Olympics have so many warm memories of the fun and empowering experiences. Registrar Laura Klassen works with a group of self-advocates The Williams Lake soccer team at the Regional Qualifier hosted by SOBC – Quesnel. who got the ball rolling to revive the Local; their interest helped inspire the formation homes they still have pictures or newspaper spent the first season getting organized, of a new SOBC – Williams Lake Executive clippings and photo albums,” Means said. “They recruiting athletes and volunteers, and Committee who are kindly dedicating loved it, and it was nice to see how happy it launching two new programs for training themselves to establishing new programs. made them. I hope we can come up to that opportunities. Williams Lake now offers “[The athletes] still have memories of when standard or even exceed it in the future.” four programs: 5-pin bowling, Club Fit, they used to do this. Quite often in their The new SOBC – Williams Lake organizers snowshoeing, and soccer.

Checking in with great SOBC Locals new or revived in the last five years

SOBC – Mackenzie has now completed its and golf in 2016. They also had the joy of Port McNeill. They recently hosted their first second full year running programs, with 16 sending an athlete to the Regional Qualifiers in powerlifting competition and had athletes awesome athletes involved. Mackenzie started Quesnel this year. attending Regional Qualifiers for the first up with 5-pin bowling and added aquatics SOBC – Merritt has some very dedicated time this year. There is no doubt we are going volunteers supporting to see more great things happening in these their enthusiastic communities! athletes! They run SOBC – Revelstoke is growing every day 5-pin bowling, Club and are currently running 5-pin bowling, alpine Fit, and swimming skiing, bocce, and Club Fit, as well as Active programs in their Start and FUNdamentals. They are community, and excited to be expanding the number of hosted their first registered athletes and volunteers as well as functional testing gaining recognition in the community. session for the SOBC – Salmon Arm has more than Club Fit athletes in 20 athletes in three core sport programs: January. basketball, bocce, and Club Fit. They recently SOBC – Mount added their first youth-specific program, Waddington FUNdamentals. The athletes have the offers bowling support of phenomenal volunteers and great and swimming in community organizations and partners, Port Hardy as well and attended their first Regional Qualifier as powerlifting in competition for summer sports this year. SOBC – Mount Waddington hosting their first powerlifting competition!

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 21 CrossFitters conquer CF|24 for Special Olympics

A day really made a difference on October 22 going,” Orth said. as participants stepped up to the CrossFit 24 For Schmiing, the experience was “a huge challenge for Special Olympics. thrill – this is the first time for me doing Working in teams of three to six, CrossFit, it’s quite a thrill and good exercise.” CrossFitters across Canada completed one At Raincity Athletics, SOBC – Vancouver high-intensity workout every hour for 24 athletes Alexander Pang and Alison Rodrigues hours to raise funds and awareness for Special took the time to talk with the participants and Olympics. In B.C., CrossFit gyms CrossFit North join in the workouts once again this year. Okanagan, Raincity Athletics, and CrossFit Raincity Athletics. “The workout was good, and it was nice to Uncivilized took part in the event, holding work out with some people I met last year!” an all-night “CrossFit slumber party” for the Rodrigues said. dedicated teams. SOBC – Vernon athlete speaker Stacy Gyms were joined by local Special Olympics Madden helped provide inspiration to kick off athletes who took part in some of the the day, encouraging the CrossFitters to “do workouts and helped to cheer on teams. your best!” At CrossFit Uncivilized, SOBC – Vancouver The event has raised a record-breaking athletes Miranda Orth and Mathew Schmiing $165,000 for Special Olympics across Canada. shared their Special Olympics experiences and Thank you to all the CrossFit gyms, teams, and helped pump up the participants. “It’s really supporters who worked so hard to make the CrossFit North Okanagan. fun, people are really getting their fitness day a success! motionball Marathon of Sport inspires sportsmanship and successful fundraising

The 2016 motionball Marathon of Sport together for another amazing day at EA Sports events in B.C. hit new heights in their support on June 4, raising a record-breaking $82,000 of Special Olympics, as these inclusive and net in support of the Special Olympics Canada inspiring days of sport and sportsmanship in Foundation. Vancouver and Kelowna set new fundraising One week later, the 2016 Marathon of Sport records and the teams of young professionals Kelowna presented by Interior Savings brought joined forces with SOBC athletes for a tidal together 22 teams and 25 SOBC athletes, wave of high fives and fun. raising more than $70,000 net for the Special motionball Marathon of Sport Vancouver’s Team Vega with their trophy! Now in its 10th year, motionball Marathon Olympics Canada Foundation. of Sport Vancouver saw 21 teams of young “We do it for the [SOBC] athletes,” Kelowna your kindness and team spirit to create such a professionals and 31 local SOBC athletes come Marathon of Sport Co-Director Donnie Ungaro beautiful day for her and the other athletes.” told Castanet.net. “They are very Our heartfelt thanks to the volunteer heartfelt, genuine and amazing organizers who log countless hours to make people.” these events possible. Michael Blondé of The hallmark of the motionball Hootsuite and Mike McClenahan of BBD Marathon of Sport is the are the dedicated Co-Directors who run the remarkable spirit of inclusion and Marathon of Sport Vancouver, teaming up camaraderie shared by the teams with Wendell Harlow of EA Outreach and Rosa of young professionals and Special Mattia of EA Sports to make this amazing Olympics athletes who come experience possible. together for the super-fun day of In Kelowna, Ungaro and Derek Fuhr do a sport. SOBC – Kelowna parent Fiona phenomenal job as Co-Directors dedicated Lindquist wrote to the Lake Country to engaging the young professionals in Calendar to comment on the power their community and ensuring a supportive

Dennis Richardson of that experience for her daughter. experience for the SOBC athletes. “Beyond the fun and humour, this motionball is a not-for-profit whose mandate young soul was amazingly blessed is to introduce the next generation of donors, by the experience and all the volunteers and sponsors to the Special encouragement and respect that Olympics movement through integrated social she received throughout the entire and sporting events. Since inception in 2002, Marathon of Sport Kelowna Team New Wave with SOBC – day. While being humoured to tears, motionball has donated over $6 million to the Kelowna athlete Will Richardson (centre). I was completely overwhelmed by Special Olympics Canada Foundation.

22 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Howie Meeker named to SOBC Hall of Fame

After more than 40 years of generously giving his time and influential support to help Special Olympics throughout Canada, B.C., and Campbell River, legendary hockey player, coach, and broadcaster Howie Meeker was inducted into the Special Olympics BC Hall of Fame. Meeker received his induction plaque at the successful annual fundraiser that bears his name, the SOBC – Campbell River Howie Meeker Golf Classic held in August. The SOBC Hall of Fame recognizes significant, long-lasting contributions that individuals and groups have made to our organization and movement. Induction into the Hall of Fame celebrates the most outstanding achievements and contributions, and is one of the highest honours bestowed within the SOBC organization. With his influential and generous advocacy work throughout Canada and B.C., Meeker has helped change the way our province and country see individuals with intellectual disabilities over the last 40 years. He has also been a vital supporter

“Howie Meeker is very deserving of this recognition based on his more than 40 years of supporting Special Olympics in Canada and B.C., and more than 28 years of

backing SOBC – Campbell River Mirror Campbell River Taylor, Alistair with the Howie Meeker Charity Howie Meeker receiving his induction plaque from SOBC Director Colin MacKinnon. Golf Classic.” way,” SOBC President & CEO Dan Howe said. Fame,” Meeker says. “Over the last 45 — Dan Howe, SOBC President & CEO A four-time Stanley Cup winner with the years, people involved in this wonderful Toronto Maple Leafs and a member of the operation at every level coast to coast of SOBC – Campbell River athletes Hockey Hall of Fame, Meeker was inducted have made the experience something extra and programs over the last 28 years, into the Order of Canada in May 2011. Meeker special in our lives, Leah and I. Much of our championing them and lending his name served in World War II before winning four appreciation of what we have, and how and time to their annual golf tournament Cups and the Calder Trophy with the Leafs. He lucky we are to have it, comes from the that has raised more than $750,000. went on to expand his renown as a Member Special Olympics athletes.” “Howie Meeker is very deserving of this of Parliament, a hockey coach, and a noted “Howie is much loved by our Special recognition based on his more than 40 broadcaster with a 30-year career. He is now Olympics athletes here in Campbell River, years of supporting Special Olympics in 92 years old and lives in Parksville with his wife as they all know how important he is to Canada and B.C., and more than 28 years Leah; both are both big-hearted supporters of their being able to participate in as many of backing SOBC – Campbell River with Special Olympics and serve as patrons of the sports as they do here,” says longtime SOBC the Howie Meeker Charity Golf Classic. We B.C. Guide Dog Services. – Campbell River volunteer Harvey Hunter, couldn’t be more proud of his involvement “I’m very, very excited to become a who is himself a 2008 SOBC Hall of Fame with us and excited to honour him in this member of the Special Olympics BC Hall of Inductee in the Builder (Local) category.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 23 Champions stand up for respect against the R-word On the eighth annual Spread the Word to Gosal says he can see the campaign through social media. Together, we shared End the Word awareness day, people from is changing attitudes and students have inspiring messages of inclusion to almost around the world took a stand to promote responded very positively to his message 340,000 combined followers. Many people and respect and to put an end to the hurtful and of inclusion. organizations in the province, including the BC dehumanizing use of the R-word. Special “They all listen and Lions, helped spread Olympics BC members and supporters rallied it’s really nice. They the word through in their communities and online to help make stand there and we tell retweets. the world a more inclusive place. them what it’s about, Youth volunteers Held on March 2 in 2016, the Spread the and they are always around the province Word to End the Word awareness day is part enthusiastic when we have championed of a year-round campaign that asks people to tell them. We also have the cause in their pledge to stop saying the R-word and to use athletes with us, so it gives them an image of schools, leading to amazing displays of respectful, people-first language. In 2017, the what they are doing and who they are helping. respect and inclusion. Leadership students R-word awareness day will be March 1. And the athletes are always so happy when at L.V. Rogers Secondary School in Nelson SOBC – Abbotsford coach and SOBC Youth they sign,” Gosal said in an interview with inspired 218 people to pledge respect by Activation Council member Roshan Gosal, Country 107.1. running pledge booths during lunch hours along with fellow youth volunteers and SOBC On Spread the Word to End the Word and sharing the campaign’s message through athletes, have shown inspiring leadership in awareness day, SOBC and our supporters school TV announcements and presentations promoting respect and inclusion in Abbotsford. shared messages of respect and understanding to classes. The students plan to continue Last year, they ran raising awareness by speaking to students at a highly successful elementary schools in their community. campaign in “I think it’s important that people are aware local schools of what having an intellectual disability really where nearly 2,000 people signed the L.V. Rogers Secondary School leadership students pledge. Maddie Sternloff, Sydney Zimmer, Noelle Wang, This year, Kyra Burkart, Darian Voisard, Allie Zondervan, and Gosal and fellow Camille Gebhart with Spread the Word to End the volunteers built on Word pledges. last year’s success and inspired 3,878 people to take the pledge, far exceeding their goal of 3,000 people.

“I think it’s important that people are aware of what having an intellectual disability really means, and that people with intellectual disabilities are capable of doing basically everything anyone else can do…” SOBC – Nelson athlete Nick Toner and Jessica Benson of the Selkirk College Classroom & Community Support Worker program at the Spread the Word to End the Word booth.

24 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Youth Activation Council making waves Golf Golden Special Olympics BC Youth Activation Council members are busy raising awareness throughout the province, spearheading initiatives such as R-word events (read more at Retrievers are a left/below) and organizing local events supporting Special Olympics and respect and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities. hole in one

In 2016, Special Olympics BC received a generous donation of Golf Golden Retrievers to help athletes on the course and support our golfing events. Golden Retrievers are specially designed tools to help retrieve golf balls, and have been very useful at SOBC competitions and tournaments. This kind donation was made by Lloyd and Nel Carmichael, who are regular listeners of Michael Campbell’s “Money Talks” radio show and heard him speaking about Special Olympics. They hoped their donation would be put Above: Roshan Gosal, SOBC – Abbotsford coach and YAC member (front row second to good use helping our athletes on the from left) with local athletes and volunteers and Mayor Henry Braun pledging to end course and supporting our fundraising the R-word. Above right: Ava Ready, SOBC – Vernon volunteer and YAC member, who championed Special Olympics in 2016 with a series of grade assemblies at Vernon events. Our thanks to the Carmichaels Secondary School. for their generosity!

means, and that people with intellectual disabilities are capable of doing basically everything anyone else can do. Also, they deserve the same respect as everyone else. I think people aren’t aware of how hurtful the R-word can actually be, and how it can affect people,” said Maddie Sternloff, a student in the Golfers at the Goldcorp Invitational leadership class. received Golden Retriever to help them Also in March, students in the Selkirk on the course. College Classroom & Community Support Worker program advocated respect with a Spread the Word to End the Word booth at their annual Celebration of Diverse Ability. The students collected well over 200 pledges. SOBC athletes from Trail, Castlegar, Nelson, and Grand Forks attended the event, and SOBC – Castlegar also hosted a booth. In November, enthusiastic St Thomas More Wolseley Canada has been a valued Collegiate students promoted respect and partner of Special Olympics since 2004. encouraged pledging to end the R-word in an In 2015, Wolseley became the official inspiring week of advocacy led by the school’s sponsor of the Special Olympics Canada Justice and Life team. Draft an Athlete national program Thanks to everyone who is helping raise helping athletes to experience the joy of awareness and promoting respect on the competing in National and World Games. Spread the Word to End the Word awareness Special Olympics Canada is delighted day and all year round! To pledge to end the that Wolseley has confirmed they will R-word, or find out more about the campaign, continue their work with SOC and the visit r-word.org. Draft an Athlete program.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 25 Fun and inclusive season of Regional Qualifiers a big success

Special Olympics BC – Invermere athlete were part of making history for basketball Andrew Galligan said participating in a within Region 6.” Regional Qualifier for the first time was a “fun A total of five teams participated in and satisfying” experience. the great event in February, with players Galligan said he was “surprised and representing SOBC – Campbell River, Victoria, honoured” when his coach asked him to Nanaimo, and Port Alberni. compete at the Aquatics Regional Qualifier for Region 1 hosted by SOBC – Kimberley/ Cranbrook. While Galligan said he was a little nervous at first, he set many personal bests at the event and said it was a great feeling to swim while the crowd cheered him on. Callum Maclagan of SOBC – Campbell In the 2016 season of summer-sport River competes in bench press at Regional Qualifiers SOBC athletes competed the British Columbia Powerlifting in 50 events across the province – the most Association Winter Open/Powerlifting in SOBC history! Locals around the province Regional Qualifier. hosted exciting competitions in 5- and 10-pin bowling, athletics, basketball, bocce, golf, each time they finished a routine powerlifting, rhythmic gymnastics, soccer, that it brought her, along with some softball, and swimming. fellow coaches and parents, to tears. With the support of dedicated volunteers The SOBC – Williams Lake soccer and coaches, SOBC athletes gave their all as team participated in a competition they thrilled spectators, created friendships, for the first time in June’s Soccer and competed to qualify for the 2017 Special Regional Qualifier for Region 8 Olympics BC Summer Games. hosted by SOBC – Quesnel. The The first Rhythmic Gymnastics Regional SOBC – Williams Lake Local recently Qualifier held in Kelowna was an emotional started back up after going on hiatus experience for SOBC – Kelowna coach Kailey for a couple of years. Due to demand Owens. from athletes, SOBC – Williams Lake Owens, the Head Coach of SOBC – Kelowna’s introduced a soccer program this rhythmic gymnastics team, said athletes from season. her Local did an amazing job at the qualifier in Craig Hilker and Kelvin Parent May, and exceeded all of her expectations. She coached the SOBC – Williams Lake said the athletes were so proud of themselves team at the Soccer Regional Qualifier. Hilker said the event had a The Athletics Regional Qualifier for Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, great atmosphere, and it and 8 hosted by SOBC – Langley was the biggest athletics gave Williams Lake players qualifier in SOBC history. a lot of opportunities to socialize with athletes Tetarenko is excited about the progress from different communities. basketball has made on the Island and sees a What Hilker remembers most lot of potential for the future. She hopes the about the qualifier is how much fun Regional Qualifier in Campbell River will serve it was for the team, and seeing the as another big step in basketball’s ongoing athletes’ smiling faces. growth in the region and the province. “It makes me somewhat “I coached for one season with Victoria’s emotional thinking about how program and seeing the development within much fun they all had. We are all the athletes in just a few years is incredible. looking forward to next year,” And this is evident across the region. This is a Hilker said. real testament not only to the hard work of Athletes competing at the the athletes, but also to the high calibre of the Basketball Regional Qualifier coaches,” Tetarenko said. Athletes from SOBC – Burns Lake, Smithers, and Terrace lit up the lanes in March’s 5-Pin hosted by SOBC – Campbell River were also SOBC would like to thank all the amazing Bowling Regional Qualifier for Region 7 part of a major milestone. coaches, volunteers, and supporters who in Smithers. “This was the first Basketball Regional made this season of summer-sport Regional Qualifier to take place on Vancouver Island,” Qualifiers a huge success. Congratulations to SOBC Region 6 Coordinator Jean Tetarenko all the athletes who competed with pride and said. “As stated to everyone present, they achieved so much!

26 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Sobeys helping fuel Special Olympics athletes with Better Food Fund partnership

This year we celebrated an expansion of the national partnership between Special Olympics Canada and Sobeys Inc., taking their significant support of Special Olympics coast to coast through the Sobeys Better Food Fund. Over the next three years, Special Olympics and Sobeys will work together to promote the health and wellbeing of athletes through initiatives that will educate and empower athletes, their families, coaches, and Olympics programs across the country. Sobeys volunteers to eat better, feel better, do better. employees will also be able to volunteer to To help celebrate the expanded partnership, lead nutrition sessions for SOBC athletes in SOBC – Victoria athletes visited the Sobeys Victoria and the Lower Mainland, and selected office in Saanichton to meet the staff and stores across the province will be leading share the joy of Special Olympics. “It was a Better Food Experiences store tours for great opportunity to have the athletes and athletes, coaches, and caregivers. SOBC – Victoria athletes met with Sobeys staff volunteers here and meet them, they were Proudly Canadian, with headquarters in Saanichton to celebrate the Better Food all so very enthusiastic and willing to share in Stellarton, Nova Scotia, Sobeys has been Fund partnership. their experiences at Special Olympics. Our serving the food shopping needs of Canadians staff really engaged and totally enjoyed the for 109 years. Sobeys owns or franchises morning,” said Vivian Chenard, Community approximately 1,500 stores in all 10 provinces Relations Manager at Sobeys. under retail banners that include Sobeys, Special Olympics Canada and Sobeys will Safeway, IGA, Foodland, FreshCo, Thrifty be working together to make healthy food Foods, and Lawton’s Drug Stores as well as Signature Authentics and proper nutrition a priority in Special more than 380 retail fuel locations. seals their support for Special Olympics

Signature Authentics supports Special Coaches develop skills at SOBC Olympics across the country and right here in British Coaching Summit Columbia, with funds More than 50 Special Olympics BC coaches conference have benefited SOBC athletes, generated representing almost 40 Locals came together and SOBC Board of Directors member Michael from sealed- for the SOBC Coaching Summit in October. Campbell speaking about SOBC’s mandate of bid auctions in this province going to Highlights from the weekend included providing top-quality coaching for athletes. Special Olympics BC initiatives. Signature a SportMedBC module on concussion Our sincere thanks to Sport Canada for Authentics operates in 75 locations management, veteran SOBC coaches funding the event and for their strong support throughout the province. discussing how tools and information at the of SOBC coaches! Signature Authentics started in 1993, primarily as an art publisher and distributor. With the success of the Toronto sports franchises at that time, SA created and distributed limited editions of authentically autographed Blue Jays and Maple Leafs art prints. Now, with more than 20 years in the industry and having had the privilege to work with sports icons like Wayne Gretzky, Maurice Richard, Gordie Howe, and many more, Signature Authentics has become one of the most respected names in the sports memorabilia and marketing business. Our thanks to Signature Authentics for their support, and to all those who bid in their sealed auctions. Dedicated SOBC coaches at the 2016 Coaching Summit in Richmond.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 27 New Car Dealers driving support for SOBC

B.C.’s New Car Dealers have been helping to support the charities. They generously seek grants to eligible students in B.C. who wish Special Olympics BC change lives through the out auction items, encourage bidding, and to pursue post-secondary education or power of sport for 32 years. The 2016 New Car provide strong guidance and insights that have training leading to a career in the automotive Dealers Foundation of BC / Special Olympics made the event succeed and grow over the years. industry. CarCareerBC grants provide financial Auction raised $187,000, bringing the three- The current volunteer auction committee support towards the cost of tuition and decade total to just under $4.6 million in members are Manse Binkley of Harmony books for recipients enrolled in applicable support of SOBC and the work of the New Car Honda and Harmony Acura, Doug Bower of apprenticeship, training, or education. Dealers Foundation. the Vancouver Sun and The Province, Marnie SOBC and the New Car Dealers Foundation The auction is an annual online fundraising Carter of Carter Auto Family, John Chesman, extend sincere thanks to everyone who event open to the New Car Dealers Association Pamela Keith of Dueck Auto Group, Joe supported the 2016 auction, and look of BC membership and their families, partners, Mitchell of Carter Auto Family, and John Wynia forward to continued success in 2017. To get suppliers and/or sponsors, Special Olympics of Harbourview Volkswagen. involved, please contact Christina Hadley, BC partners, suppliers and/or sponsors, and The funds raised by the auction help SOBC Vice President, Fund Development & donors to the auction. SOBC transform lives and support the work Communications, at 604-737-3073 / toll-free This year saw donors generously give of the New Car Dealers Foundation. The at 1-888-854-2276 / or by email at the greatest number of items yet, with 281 Foundation awards CarCareerBC education [email protected]. sought-after prizes in the following categories: Automotive and Business, Food and Wine, Lifestyle, Media, and Sport and Travel. The 2016 auction also experienced growth in the important cash pledges from New Car Dealers as well as related businesses and supporters, as this year’s cash pledges were greater than in 2015. “Special Olympics transforms lives through the joy of sport every day. In B.C., there are more than 4,600 athletes empowering themselves through year-round Special Olympics programs in 57 communities. We change lives and we change minds about all that individuals with intellectual disabilities can do, creating social change. But we couldn’t do it without the support of B.C.’s New Car Dealers, and our sincere thanks go out to all who gave so generously to this year’s auction,” SOBC President & CEO Dan Howe said. The event is powered by a dedicated committee comprised of volunteer members working with SOBC and New Car Dealers Foundation staff. The volunteer members have given countless hours to the auction in order

Special thanks to the Auction Committee: Manse Binkley, Harmony Honda & Harmony Acura Doug Bower, The Vancouver Sun & The Province Marnie Carter, Carter Auto Family John Chesman Christina Hadley, Special Olympics BC Dan Howe, Special Olympics BC Pam Keith, Dueck Auto Group Joe Mitchell, Carter Auto Family John Wynia, Harbourview Volkswagen

and to all the other dealers who made cash pledges, solicited auction items and bid on items.

28 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Dueck Auto Group puts

support into high gear with British Columbia Classic and Custom Car Shows Give the gift of “Yes I can”

“Special Olympics is my way of showing the world that ‘Yes I can.’ I strive to show the world that, despite my disability, I can do anything any typical person can do.” – Adam Advocaat, SOBC – Coquitlam

Special Olympics BC helps over 4,600 athletes in B.C. show the world what they can do. You can help enrich lives, build confidence, and give the gift of “Yes I can” with a donation to SOBC. Donate online, by phone, or by cheque to the address below. You can request that your donation supports a specific Local of your choice.

Online: Donation form at specialolympics.bc.ca

By phone: Each summer, Dueck Auto Group hosts a cars of all makes and models. On July 10, 604-737-3180 / series of Classic and Custom Car Shows Dueck Downtown had nearly 60 vehicles 1-888-854-2276 toll-free to benefit Special Olympics BC, and 2016 register for their fourth annual car show, was their most successful year yet. The and Dueck on Marine saw an amazing 200 events were supported by SOBC athletes, cars take part in August. The shows raised By mail: Special Olympics BC who did a great job presenting awards to nearly $5000 for Special Olympics BC and #210 – 3701 Hastings Street car owners and selling raffle tickets. The were fun-filled days out with great cars, Burnaby, BC shows kicked off in June with the Dueck music, and a barbecue for attendees. We V5C 2H6 Richmond Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast are so grateful to Dueck Auto Group for Show and Shine, which partnered with organizing these events and supporting Riverside Corvette Club to host 100 classic SOBC!

Home Hardware builds support for Special Olympics athletes

Special Olympics BC is grateful for the Home Hardware is the National Sponsor of generous support of Home Hardware, which two of SOBC’s most successful and prestigious helps enrich the lives of more than 4,600 annual fundraising events: the Goldcorp athletes across the province and thousands Invitational Golf Tournament supporting SOBC more across the country. Home Hardware has and the Sports Celebrities Festival presented been a National Partner of Special Olympics by Silver Wheaton benefitting SOBC and the Canada since 2000, and their generous funding Canucks for Kids Fund. is supplemented by marketing support such as SOBC is extremely grateful for the year- mentions in TV commercials. round support of Home Hardware.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 29 LETR members set the pace with great events across

BRITISH COLUMBIA the province

The Lower Mainland’s law enforcement finest came together with Special Olympics BC athletes from May 31 to June 3 as the Law Enforcement Torch Run for SOBC swept through communities from Mission to the North Shore, raising vital funds and awareness. Around 330 law enforcement members from a range of agencies and 45 Special Olympics athletes took part in the annual four-day run for SOBC. Nanaimo Richmond “The athletes we support are near and dear to our hearts,” said Superintendent Murray Power, Officer in Charge of the Langley RCMP, who welcomed Torch Run participants at his detachment. “They bring their emotion, their effort, and they are inspirational not only to us but to all the citizens of Langley and around British Columbia. We want to continue to throw our support behind the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics.” The core Torch Run team joined local law enforcement members and SOBC athletes White Rock as they carried the Flame of Hope through Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Langley, Surrey, White Rock, Burnaby, Vancouver, North Vancouver, Columbia, and Metro Vancouver Transit Police. West Vancouver, Mission, Maple Ridge, Pitt In June, law enforcement titans teamed Meadows, Port Moody, Coquitlam, New up with local Special Olympics athletes for Westminster, Richmond, Delta, and Ladner. inspiring Torch Run events on Vancouver Participating agencies included the Island. In Greater Victoria, members of the Abbotsford, Delta, New Westminster, Port Saanich Police Department, Central Saanich Moody, Vancouver, and West Vancouver Police Service, Victoria Police Department, police departments, RCMP detachments Oak Bay Police Department, and Canadian throughout the Lower Mainland, the RCMP’s Armed Forces came together with SOBC – Pacific Region Training Centre, Canada Border Victoria athletes for an annual five-kilometre Services Agency, the Justice Institute of British walk/run along the Galloping Goose Trail. The sixth annual Nanaimo Torch Run saw runners Golden and walkers gather at Maffeo Sutton Park and take off on a five-kilometre route along Constable Cam Mackay had the honour of the city’s waterfront. Nanaimo RCMP staged joining a national team of law enforcement the successful event with SOBC – Nanaimo runners in the 2016 Special Olympics Canada athletes and other community members, Winter Games LETR Final Leg, carrying the including the Military Police. Flame of Hope across Newfoundland and In September, Cranbrook RCMP members Labrador and into the National Games Opening and SOBC athletes joined members of their Ceremony. community for the Cranbrook Torch Run, which Oak Bay Police Department Constable Sheri was followed by a barbecue celebrating SOBC Lucas and SOBC – Coquitlam athlete Mandy – Kimberley/Cranbrook’s 30th anniversary. In Manzardo will help kick off the2017 Special October, more than 50 participants came out Olympics World Winter Games as part of the West Vancouver Police Department Constable for the great Golden Torch Run, which was Final Leg Team in Austria. Jeff Wood awards a ribbon at the Athletics organized by the Golden RCMP and included Many BC LETR members presented ribbons Regional Qualifier for Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and the B.C. Conservation Officer Service. at SOBC Regional Qualifiers across the 8 in Langley. From February 26 to March 1, VPD province in 2016.

30 Special Olympics BC Bulletin LETR recap

Special Olympics BC would like to thank the various agencies who organized events in 2016 to raise funds and awareness. The Delta Police Department hosted their successful annual 50/50 draw at a Vancouver Giants hockey game in March. In April, Metro Vancouver Transit Police, Burnaby RCMP, West Vancouver Police Department, and Concord Security Corporation rode hard and raised $3,500 in the Cycle for a Cause at Metropolis at Metrotown, and the Mission RCMP and SOBC – Mission athletes and volunteers raised $1,336 in their first Cycle for VPD Insp. Wild receives a John Carion Award at Greater Victoria law enforcement and SOBC – a Cause fundraiser. the 2016 LETR International Conference. Victoria athletes, volunteers, and supporters at April also saw Oak Bay, Saanich, and Victoria Free the Fuzz. police departments and the Central Saanich Police Service raise more than $6,000 at the annual Free the Fuzz roof sit. In its third year, the Metro Vancouver Transit Police Golf Tournament in May raised just over $16,700. The Abbotsford Police Department hosted their annual Challenge Run in June. Many community members came out to take part and support this family-oriented event for SOBC. In September, the LETR was delighted to be part of the New Westminster Police Charity Golf Tournament for the first time. Vancouver Police Department Inspector Joanne Wild won the international LETR movement’s 2016 John Carion Award at September’s 2016 LETR International Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The 2017 conference will be held in Nashville, Tennessee.

SOBC – Delta athletes Brad Smith and Scott Fattedad perform a ceremonial puck drop for a cheering crowd at a Vancouver Giants game.

Prince George RCMP, Prince George Fire Rescue, BC Corrections, and B.C. Sheriff Services teamed up with SOBC – Prince George athletes and the Prince George Cougars for the LETR Skate in November. Delta Police Department Constable Grayson Smith released his new children’s book There’s a Norseman in the Classroom!. Two dollars from the sale of every copy goes to benefit SOBC. Pick up a copy of the book at pepperminttoast.com. Metro Vancouver Transit Police and the Vancouver and Victoria police departments held successful overtime drives this year, raising funds through donations of banked time to support SOBC programs. We also thank the many agencies who held Law enforcement and SOBC supporters work up a sweat at the Cycle for a Cause at raffles, hosted barbecues, and sold T-shirts this Metropolis at Metrotown. year to raise funds for SOBC.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 31 First Vancouver Polar Plunge for SOBC makes a big splash

The sun shone but the sea was frigid as brave SOBC Treasurer Colin Yakashiro came out to souls got bold and cold at the first-ever Polar plunge with his team of colleagues from Grant Plunge for Special Olympics BC in Vancouver. Thornton, the Purple Polar Bears. The 2016 Polar Plunge drew 90 Plungers to “We’ve got about 10 people coming from get freezin’ for a reason at Kitsilano Beach in our office from all different backgrounds,” March. Participants raised more than $30,000 Yakashiro said before taking the Plunge. “We to support SOBC. thought it would be a great way to team build The Polar Plunge, staged in partnership with and raise some money for Special Olympics. It’s the BC Law Enforcement Torch Run, saw 40 going to be a great day.” members of the Vancouver, Abbotsford, and A dozen colourful characters in the costume West Vancouver police departments, Metro contest posed onstage for a cheering crowd. Vancouver Transit Police, and Canada Border Keen-eyed judges VPD Chief Adam Palmer, Services Agency take the Plunge alongside SOBC Board of Directors member Michael teams, businesses, and individuals looking for a Campbell, and SOBC – Vancouver athlete festive but chilly time. Sheryl Spurr voted Jamie Pitblado of the “Once the teeth stopped chattering, we BC Lions Football Club and Amy Jorgensen, realized how much fun this was and how dressed as a Felion cheerleader and a lucha much money we were able to raise for Special libre wrestler respectively, as the best-dressed Olympics,” VPD Superintendent Howard Chow Plungers. said. “The costumes, the hard work from the At the call to plunge, spectators crowded planning committee, and the support from the shore as the law enforcement contingent, the public and law enforcement community all fully dressed, assembled behind VPD bagpiper contributed to the event’s incredible success. Constable Cal Davis for a ceremonial send-off. Thank you to everyone for taking part. I hope VPD Chief Adam Palmer, APD Chief Bob Rich to see everyone shivering beside me at the BC Lions quarterback Travis Lulay gets bold and Deputy Chief Mike Serr, Transit Police second annual Polar Plunge!” and cold. Deputy Chief and BC LETR Executive member Barry Kross, and WVPD Deputy Chief Shane Barber led the charge into frigid waters. Close on the heels of law enforcement came a cast of superheroes, celebrities, and Robert McDonald kooky characters running, splashing, Team Dueck and other Plungers show their spirit at Kits Beach. and laughing in the chilly water. The VPD took the prize for top law Guests of all ages had fun checking out enforcement fundraising team, while Team police department operations vehicles, Law enforcement leads the Plunge. Dueck was the top fundraising team, and along with the VPD mounted, marine, and Greg Keith of Dueck Auto Group was the top canine units on display. Teams of VPD cadets individual fundraiser. and SOBC athletes roved the beach raising BC Lions quarterback Travis Lulay, a awareness and accepting donations. longtime Special Olympics supporter, and Thanks to Nordstrom, CN, and the national women’s soccer team players Emily Vancouver Police Credit Union for generously Zurrer and Selenia Iacchelli got in the game supporting the Polar Plunge with donations, to plunge. Sportsnet Central host Caroline and to everyone who helped make the Cameron emceed the action, and City inaugural Plunge in Vancouver such a great Television and OMNI Television generously success. supported the event as Media Sponsors. We are thrilled to welcome Westminster Michelle Collens, Manager, Sport Hosting, Savings Credit Union as the Presenting VPD Inspector Joanne Wild and SOBC – Surrey City of Vancouver attended the event as a Sponsor for the 2017 Polar Plunge coming athlete Michaela Robinson chillin’ at the representative of the City of Vancouver, which March 4! To find out more or to register, visit Polar Plunge. provided the perfect venue at scenic Kits Beach. plunge4specialolympics.com.

32 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Park’N Fly Vancouver helps SOBC flies high with Special Olympics athletes soar Pacific Coastal Airlines

Park’N Fly Vancouver has a long history of providing cost-effective For staff, volunteers, and well-supported parking for Vancouver International Airport and athletes of passengers, and for many years they have also given generously to Special Olympics BC, help Special Olympics athletes thrive. the cost of flying to Park’N Fly Vancouver has supported Special Olympics BC by an event or function donating auction items for fundraising events and providing parking could be a real barrier. Fortunately for us, we have the generous for staff and key volunteers when travelling for SOBC. The company support of Pacific Coastal Airlines. also makes a point of hiring SO athletes and people with disabilities. Throughout the year, Pacific Coastal Airlines provides air travel They offer a range of parking and transportation services and for our athletes, coaches, and volunteers to attend events all over solutions at Vancouver International Airport, including wheelchair- the province, including Performance Program camps and Athlete accessible transportation between their lots and the airport. Leadership conferences. Park’N Fly Vancouver extends a special discount offer to members Quentin Smith, President and CEO of Pacific Coastal Airlines, has of the SOBC supported SOBC for many years. He has attended our fundraising community, giving events in person and provided significant support by donating highly lower-than-web rates valued travel packages as auction items. for business and SOBC is honoured, proud, and grateful to be supported by Quentin leisure travel. Quote and Pacific Coastal Airlines. the number 787911 Pacific Coastal Airlines was founded almost 30 years ago and when you contact provides regular schedule, charter, and cargo services to 65-plus Park’N Fly to receive destinations in B.C. Make sure to check out their schedule if you’re the SOBC discount. flying to a community they serve. Staples campaign inspires support nationwide

It was another successful year for Staples possible, recruiting Canada’s annual Give a Toonie Share a Dream volunteers, helping campaign in support of Special Olympics to organize events, athletes across Canada. and coordinating The 2016 campaign, which took place from shifts for athletes May 7 to June 5, raised more than $550,000 helping out at nationwide. During this important campaign, the store. Special Olympics athletes and volunteers join SOBC – Surrey athlete Michaela Robinson, Staples staff in stores to invite customers to a Staples employee herself, volunteered donate at the till or online. multiple times per week in stores in her SOBC – Prince George athlete Barbie community and further showed her generosity Conway said staff at the Staples store in Prince by donating to Staples’ ongoing fundraising efforts a signed Vancouver Canucks hockey stick she had won in a raffle, Penticton and a voucher for four rounds of golf. In addition to the successful Softball Tournament in July saw 16 Special campaign, the annual Staples Olympics BC athletes team up with Staples Canada/Special Olympics BC employees for a fun and friendly day-long tournament at the Riverway Sports Complex in Burnaby. This year marks Staples Canada and Special Olympics Canada’s 20th year of partnership. Over the last two decades, the Give a Toonie Share a Dream campaign has raised more Victoria than $7 million for Canada’s Special Olympics George did a great job of putting on events, athletes, including more than $750,000 for including barbecues and a bake sale, that were SOBC athletes. exciting for SOBC athletes and a lot of fun Our heartfelt thanks to Staples Canada staff for everyone who attended. Conway played and customers, and to all the athletes and a critical role in supporting the campaign volunteers across the province who give their Burnaby by volunteering in the store whenever time and energy to support Special Olympics!

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 33 SOBC Leadership Council SOBC Leadership Council update Comprised of the Regional Coordinators representing the eight SOBC Regions Special Olympics BC’s Leadership Council years of dedicated service in the position. and respected leaders in the SOBC provides vital guidance for our organization Heartt gave her time and enthusiasm to sport world, the council serves as the and movement, and benefits significantly from Special Olympics since 1992. She came back link between community and regional the efforts of these valued volunteers. into the Regional Coordinator role fresh off programs and the Board of Directors of We were glad to begin 2016 with the her second stint as the SOBC – Dawson Creek Special Olympics BC. This group plays an addition of new Region 4 Coordinator Natalie Local Coordinator, where she returned to SOBC important role in helping chart the course D’Angelo, a former staff member making a after taking four years off while she finished of SOBC sport program development, welcome return to SOBC. D’Angelo was a school. Prior to that, Heartt served a six-year strategic plans, policies, and resources. valued SOBC staff member from 2005 to 2007, stint as Region 8’s Regional Coordinator, serving as Manager, Program Development, which was preceded by her first time as Local Leadership Chair: and Manager, Volunteer Development. In Coordinator for Dawson Creek, beginning back Patty Wheeldon her roles, she made a difference through her in January 1992. work in community development, volunteer Galletti has been a dedicated and valued Regional Coordinators: management, Athlete Leadership programs, SOBC volunteer since 1998, and she was Sheila Hawton (Region 1) and more. nominated for the SOBC President’s Award Sheila Paynter (Region 2) We are so grateful that former Region 4 in 2015 in recognition of her many and varied Donna Bilous (Region 3) Coordinator Barb Tull did not leave SOBC contributions. She began as the Regional Natalie D’Angelo (Region 4) entirely, as she stayed involved with the sport Coordinator for Region 7, and remained on Darren Inouye (Region 5) that is her passion, rhythmic gymnastics. Tull the Leadership Council after moving to Prince Jean Tetarenko (Region 6) has been involved with SOBC for 26 years and George, when she took on the Region 8 Nicole Zacharias (Region 7) has been a remarkable source of leadership, position. Tracy Heartt (Region 8) support, guidance, and compassion throughout Galletti is admired for her dedication to her involvement. She is a great champion ensuring athletes and coaches are heard Members: of Special Olympics athletes, a hardworking and understood, her strong organizational Deanna Levchuk volunteer, and a valued visionary and friend. and management skills, her passion for James Sutherland In April, we welcomed Tracy Heartt back into competition and events, her tireless work, Matthew Williams the role of Regional Coordinator for Region 8, and her positive attitude. and gave big thanks to Sandra Galletti for her

Functional testing inspires fitness and success Special Olympics BC – Castlegar athlete Liam harder and take pride in his health. Donnelly says attending an SOBC functional “I have never felt as strongly attached to my testing session in June helped him improve whole fitness as I do now,” he said. his athletic performance, become healthier, Donnelly keeps the sheet with his functional and build confidence. testing results in his room and says it reminds “I learned so much in one day,” Donnelly him of everything he has accomplished. said. “It was so much fun – I had a blast!” “To me it is more than a piece of paper, it is In functional testing, athletes participate in proof that I have done this and got this far at exercises that measure fitness and test their everything I have done,” he said. foundational movements. These sessions are Donnelly says functional testing sessions used to evaluate an athlete’s fitness level and are important because they motivate athletes motivate and guide training. Functional testing to get off the couch, lead healthy lifestyles, also helps athletes track their progress and and feel good about themselves. Donnelly said provides coaches with insights from the testing have changed the way feedback to evaluate the he trains, which has led to improvements in his effectiveness of their balance, performance in the pool, and health. training programs. He strongly encourages other SOBC athletes SOBC – Castlegar A dedicated swimmer, to take part in functional testing. athlete Liam Donnelly Donnelly’s hard work in the “It’s such a great program – it can help so is a dedicated pool led to great results many athletes better succeed!” he said. swimmer who takes during the functional Going forward, Donnelly said he would love pride in his health. testing session in June. to participate in another functional testing Donnelly said seeing what session, and wants to achieve even better he can accomplish at the results. SOBC athletes take part in a functional functional testing session “If I could, I would do one every week,” testing session in Vancouver. has inspired him to train he said.

34 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Marvellous progress with SOBC Performance Program

“Truly marvellous” growth and gains were observed between the Performance camps observed in Special Olympics BC coaches and the 2016 National Games, where all of and athletes through the Performance the Team BC snowshoers Program in the 2015-16 sport season, which posted personal-best was the fourth year of operation for this performances. groundbreaking initiative. Jacques Thibault, the SOBC’s Performance Program is a long-term internationally recognized plan for enhancing the skills and performance sport performance expert Swimmers and coaches of coaches and through them, all SOBC who has helped SOBC thank RBC Foundation for athletes. The program is not just for elite build the program, noted their support at an SOBC athletes – it’s for coaches who are open to that significant gains Aquatics Performance Camp new training techniques and athletes who are have been observed, held at Simon Fraser committed to training. Participating coaches and the leadership and University. and athletes take the skills that they learn back abilities of SOBC coaches to their local programs to benefit all athletes, and athletes are very Coaches and athletes work to elevate their performance at not just a few. inspiring. September’s SOBC Athletics Performance Camp in Burnaby. The 2015-16 sport season saw SOBC “Lots of progress has host 24 Performance Program camps and been observed since the Performance Program direct feedback on where the athletes are expand into supporting all 18 SOBC sports; started four years ago, but what is happening in their fitness and how they can improve, meanwhile, participating coaches and athletes now is truly marvellous. The level of expertise helping motivate the athletes and guide demonstrated many improvements in their of our athletes, coaches, and administrators training; and abilities and impact on others. is always improving, providing leadership that coach-only camps and summits where SOBC – Kelowna’s David Wilkinson served inspires excellence in health and sport for all,” coaches come together to learn from as a Team BC 2016 snowshoeing coach and has said Thibault. “I am grateful to have the chance experts, share their experience with others, participated in Performance Program camps. to work with such amazing people.” and collaborate on ideas. Even though this was just his first National The goal of the Performance Program The vision for 2016-17 is to have a similar Games, Wilkinson was selected to be a Special is to elevate everyone’s level of sport and number of Performance Program camps as in Olympics Team Canada 2017 snowshoeing performance by providing training and tools the last sport year, and continue supporting coach, a particularly exciting achievement since to participating coaches and athletes so all sports. Work in winter sports will continue, his son Tony also qualified for a spot on the they can share them with everyone in their at least at the same level as the previous team as a competitor. home communities. We believe that by giving year, and there will also be an increased focus Wilkinson said the Performance Program coaches better resources and tools, they can on preparing all of B.C. for the 2017 SOBC provides interaction with experts and fellow then train athletes better, who in turn raise Summer Games and 2018 Special Olympics coaches that have helped him develop more the level of competition making everyone’s Canada Summer Games. drills and coaching techniques that he has been performance level rise. Significant support from the Government of able to work into his local program. In addition, The program involves three components: Canada, a $20,000 grant from RBC Foundation, he said, the hands-on instruction helps athletes by-invitation camps where athletes and and the ongoing generosity of SOBC’s really build their skills with sport-specific coaches from all over the province work provincial partners help make the Performance techniques, and feel happy with their success with sport-specific experts and sport science Program opportunities possible. in the improvements they can see. experts to help develop their skills and For more information and stories, please “I really do think it’s a valuable thing,” knowledge and give them tools to share; visit specialolympics.bc.ca/performance- Wilkinson said, noting the great successes functional testing sessions that provide program or contact James Marchand, Sport Coordinator – Performance, by email at [email protected] or by phone at 604-616-1342 / 1-888-854-2276 toll-free.

SOBC Performance Program supported by

Above: Athletes and coaches thank the Government of Canada at an SOBC Speed Skating Performance Camp. Above right: SOBC – Comox Valley’s Randy James leads coaches through floor hockey drills at November’s SOBC Team Sport Performance Camp.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 35 SOBC athletes, volunteers, and supporters honoured locally and nationally

We’re very pleased to congratulate and and Dennis Richardson earned the Bob celebrate Special Olympics members and Giordano Memorial Award for his significant supporters who were recognized in 2016 with contributions to Kelowna through voluntary awards for their significant contributions to service to amateur sport. Special Olympics, sport, and community! The SOBC – Mission soccer team who Heartfelt congratulations to all the winners earned a fourth-place finish at the 2015 of the Special Olympics Canada 2016 Special Olympics World Summer Games was National Awards, including Female Athlete honoured by their community as the winner of the Year Shelly Poland of SOBC – Golden of the District of Mission’s 2016 Against the and Male Coach of the Year Garth Vickers Odds Achievement Award. of SOBC – Kelowna. Sincere congrats also to former BC Law Enforcement Torch Run Special Olympics Canada pioneer Dr. Frank Executive Council member Rick Taylor, Hayden was named one of seven Class of winner of the Rob Plunkett LETR Award. 2016 inductees to Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame as a Builder. His groundbreaking research and transformative work helped build the Special Olympics movement and National Male Coach of the Year Garth Vickers change lives. of SOBC – Kelowna (right) with Special Olympics Canada pioneer Dr. Frank Hayden. SOBC – Richmond athletes Magnus Batara and Nicky Chow and coach Outstanding SOBC volunteers Jeannie Meghan Jamieson were celebrated by Cramer, Tom Norton, Shelagh Schmidt, and their community as winners in the 17th Margot Tubman received the Sovereign’s annual Richmond Sports Awards. Batara Medal for Volunteers for their remarkable earned the inaugural Richmond News efforts and impact. Sportsperson of the Year Award for his outstanding performance at the 2015 Special SOBC – Abbotsford coach and SOBC Youth Olympics World Summer Games; Chow Activation Council member Roshan Gosal received the 2016 Richmond Sports Awards earned a Peace Medallion in the Young Social Special Olympics Athlete prize in recognition Change Leader category at the YMCA of of his impressive achievements in speed Greater Vancouver’s 2016 Power of Peace skating, as well as his accomplishments and Awards. strong improvement in basketball and soccer; National Female Athlete of the Year Shelly Poland of SOBC – Golden (right) celebrating Jamieson won the Richmond Sports Award On the Sunshine Coast, Local Coordinator with Special Olympics Canada Champions for outstanding achievement by an Adult Pat Stuart was honoured alongside fellow Network Co-Chair and Olympic champion Female Athlete due to her excellence in judo. outstanding local citizens at the 2016 Catriona Le May Doan. Celebration of Excellence.

SOBC – Campbell River athlete Jesse A talented and hardworking athlete, SOBC Shade was honoured with one of the – Burnaby’s Katie Little was named by the inaugural Premier’s Awards for Aboriginal Coquitlam Sports Hall of Fame as one of the Youth Excellence in Sport for his outstanding 2015 Wall of Fame inductees. achievements in swimming and basketball. We are pleased to celebrate Dan Howe, Warm congratulations to SOBC – Burnaby Special Olympics BC’s President & CEO, Local Coordinator Ron Hammell, a 24-year who in 2016 marked 30 years as SOBC staff. SOBC volunteer who received the 2016 Sport Thank you for all your remarkable work and BC Presidents’ Award for SOBC. dedication to Special Olympics!

Two longtime coaches won prestigious Congratulations to these deserving winners, community recognition at the City of and to all of the members of the SOBC family Kelowna’s 2015 Civic and Community who have been recognized in their own Awards. Lorena Mead received the Sarah communities this year whom we may have Donalda Treadgold Memorial Woman Jesse Shade receiving a Premier’s Award for missed! We love to hear about and celebrate of the Year Award for her outstanding Aboriginal Youth Excellence in Sport from your achievements – please forward stories to: contributions to the city of Kelowna, Premier Christy Clark. [email protected].

36 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Tom Norton named Special Olympics North America Coach of the Year

The excellence and dedication of Special Olympics for more than 25 years, first as a Olympics British Columbia coach Tom member of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Norton have earned international Special Olympics and for the last 10 years as an recognition, as the Abbotsford-based SOBC coach. volunteer was honoured in January 2016 He has been an outstanding coach at the as Special Olympics North America’s 2015 local level, as a member of nine regional and Coach of the Year. provincial teams (for both Special Olympics and “Tom’s dedication and efforts are totally mainstream Games) and two Special Olympics focused on the athletes and what he can national teams (in 2011 and 2015), and as a local do to bring out the best in them – he training coach for athletes going to Special has spurred on his athletes to achieve Olympics Provincial and National Games. things they never thought possible,” said Norton was presented with the Special Annette Lynch, Senior Manager, Coaching Olympics North America Coach of the Year Excellence & Sport Education, Special award in a surprise ceremony on January 9 Olympics North America. at an SOBC Athletics Performance Camp, Norton, who has been a volunteer where he was surrounded by fellow volunteer SOBC – Abbotsford coach for the last 10 coaches dedicated to helping athletes with years, truly embodies Special Olympics’ intellectual disabilities excel on and off the commitment to providing every athlete fields of play. Norton said it was “absolutely with the quality coaching they deserve. overwhelming” to win the Special Olympics Special Olympics North America 2015 Norton has been involved in Special North America award. Coach of the Year Tom Norton.

Confidence and skills developed at in-line skate sessions This year, athletes around the province took a their skills, and ultimately join an SOBC- Jacques Thibault and in-line skating expert big first step towards joining an SOBC skating sanctioned program in one of these sports. Dallas Kurtz. or skiing program – without even setting foot SOBC Learn to Skate sessions have been “I would have to say, amazing sessions were on a rink or a slope. held throughout B.C., starting happening,” Kurtz said. “From athletes and Trying any kind of skating in early 2016 with Vernon, coaches standing for the first time, to them or skiing for the first time Prince George, and Nelson. skating backwards and doing cool balancing can be an intimidating There athletes received tricks on skates, personal building and learning experience. To help more world-class instruction from was happening with everyone.” athletes overcome hurdles former Olympic speed skater More than 60 athletes have taken part and join these sports, SOBC in the Learn to Skate has introduced a Learn to program within its first Skate program, supported year. With more athletes by Special Olympics Canada, building their confidence that looks to help athletes and skills in skating and and coaches build confidence skiing sports, SOBC has and skills through in-line seen enrollment numbers skating workshops. These rise and hopes to expand workshops help to improve competition opportunities core strength, leg strength, to various regions across and balance, and they are a the province. great preparation not only Dennis Richardson For more information for speed skating or figure Learn to Skate session about Learn to Skate skating, but alpine skiing in Kelowna. programs, please contact and cross-country skiing too. Shawn Fevens at From there, the program provides participants Learn to Skate session in Vernon. sfevens@specialolympics. with opportunities to continue developing bc.ca or 604-737-3055.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 37 Horizon-expanding opportunities with SOBC youth programs When Sandra Hamel first registered her creation of SOBC – Nanaimo’s new basketball daughter Esme for Special Olympics BC – program! The Nanaimo schools brought back Nanaimo’s Active Start program, she thought the try-it days in 2016, and Campbell River it might be a fun thing to do. Very quickly Esme and Grand Forks introduced similar events this showed that participating in Special Olympics year to benefit their students with intellectual youth programs definitely is fun, but it’s also disabilities. full of exciting benefits that develop through In addition to building awareness of the the fun activities and warm environment. range of sports, the try-it days helped show Throughout her first weeks in her local Special Olympics is for individuals with Active Start program, 2½-year-old Esme intellectual disabilities of all ages, not just consistently exceeded expectations. The adults. More school-based opportunities are facilitators taught games and Esme was able coming in 2017, including the launch of try-it to follow the directions, though she had days in Quesnel and a school competition not previously shown she could do so. They Great times for young athletes in the SOBC – program on the Island. started kicking balls in the program, and even Kelowna FUNdamentals program. In May, children with intellectual disabilities though it seemed a bit early for Esme to be ages two to 12 had an opportunity to give our able to accomplish that skill, a few days later demonstrating significant skill developments youth programs a try at SOBC’s 2016 Youth her mother saw her balancing on one leg and while having a wonderful time in a safe Sports Day. The event saw more than 40 making the kick motion. learning environment. children take part in an amazing day of sports “The program challenges her, but in a really New SOBC youth programs have recently and smiles at Burnaby North Secondary School. good way,” Sandra Hamel said. “We’ve seen a started in locations such as Cowichan Valley, At this annual event, families who are new to lot of benefits that we didn’t anticipate, and Kitimat, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Prince George, Special Olympics are able to experience the we love seeing her grow so much. … I’m always Prince Rupert, Salmon Arm, Surrey, and fun and engaging activities that are a regular so excited at the end of the night because I do Victoria. There are now more than 1,335 see something new every night.” children and youth with intellectual There are now 101 SOBC Active Start, disabilities ages two to 21 involved in FUNdamentals, and Sport Start programs SOBC programs around the province. running in communities around the province, SOBC also actively works with where children with intellectual disabilities schools to connect with their youth with ages two to 18 have the opportunity to learn intellectual disabilities and let them vital motor, sport, and social skills in a fun and know about all the opportunities open welcoming environment. to them with Special Olympics, including traditional and Sport Start programs. In 2016, Nanaimo, Campbell River, and Grand Forks schools helped their students engage with Special Olympics through fun try-it days. The Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools District 68 staff first teamed up with SOBC in 2015 Fun for all in SOBC – Richmond’s youth programs. to host a series of four try-it days where students from all seven high schools part of SOBC’s youth programming. Youth had opportunities to sample a wide range of Sports Day also gives current SOBC athletes sports offered by SOBC – Nanaimo, as well a chance to participate in a great day of as a Club Fit and healthy living station. activities with friends. After last year’s try-it days, at least Our thanks to Goldcorp, the Government of Isaac Loponen had a wonderful time with his six students were able to jump right into Canada, the Government of British Columbia, parents at Youth Sports Day. participation in SOBC – Nanaimo programs, Tim Hortons, Variety - The Children’s Charity, including golf. Many of the try-it day the Samuel Family Foundation, The Slaight Many children with intellectual disabilities participants were surprised to find out that Family Foundation, and the Eric Hamber feel left behind or isolated in traditional SOBC – Nanaimo offers golf, and it proved Foundation for their significant support of sport and activity programs. Special Olympics quite popular. Enthusiasm at the try-it days and youth programs and athlete development is the place where they belong and thrive, interest from the community also led to the throughout B.C.

Youth programs supported by

38 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Building skills and sharing perspectives with Athlete Raising awareness at World Outlook Financial Leadership programs Conference Special Olympics BC recognizes how important work with their home communities to share Since 1990, the World Outlook Financial it is that leadership comes from within, and important athlete perspectives. Conference has been bringing together that is why we create the social space that The Athlete Speakers Bureau 2 and top-quality financial analysts together allows athletes to form a strong and lasting Governance participants also completed with sophisticated Canadian investors community and feel empowered to speak out training to become certified Sun Safety to share world-class information and on behalf of their peers and themselves. Health Heroes. As part of our new Healthy analysis. Their goals are simple: “We want Through SOBC Athlete Leadership to protect attendees from profound programs, athletes develop the skills and financial instability encompassing the abilities to take leadership positions in a world. And we want to make them money.” number of roles including public speaking, The 2016 WOFC was held on January sitting on Local Committees, assisting with 29 and 30 in Vancouver. We are grateful fundraising, and as acting peer mentors at that Special Olympics BC once again had sport programs. This year, leadership skills, a presence at the conference, accepting public-speaking abilities, health advocacy, donations from attendees and sharing and dialogue were enhanced as 39 talented stories of our athletes and programs. athletes from 15 communities participated The 2017 WOFC will be held on February 3 in Special Olympics BC Athlete Leadership and 4 in Vancouver. Our thanks to conference programs in Richmond in the first weekend of founder Michael Campbell for the event’s April. amazing support of Special Olympics. Twenty-five athletes built their public- Please see http://moneytalks.net/ speaking skills in the Athlete Speakers Bureau events/world-outlook-conference-2017. 1 and 2 courses, supported by mentors html for more information. from their home communities who will help them in their ongoing opportunities to give speeches and share their stories. These advocates help Knights of Columbus raise awareness provide strong support and support for Special Olympics for Special Olympics and for individuals with intellectual The Knights of Columbus and Special disabilities, Olympics have a long-standing and showcasing their important relationship, dating all the way great abilities and back to the founding of Special Olympics achievements. in 1968. Today they continue to be a “Because of SOBC – Oceanside athlete valued international partner and a source Special Olympics, Shayne Blandin of great support here in B.C. Members I am more fit and of the Knights of Columbus do a great healthy than before. Communities initiatives, SOBC deal to assist people with intellectual I feel included in my is introducing Health Heroes disabilities, including volunteering community because SOBC – Vancouver athlete training for athletes who wish and running fundraising campaigns to without Special Mathew Schmiing to equip themselves to help support Special Olympics BC. Olympics, I would educate their peers about best We greatly appreciate support from have few friends, few opportunities, and few practices for healthy living. the Knights of Columbus, and we look chances to travel and meet new people,” SOBC Congratulations and thanks to all the forward to making a difference together – Vernon athlete Justin Sigal said in his Athlete participants! We look forward to hearing more for many years to come. Speakers Bureau 1 speech. about these athletes and welcoming more A further 14 athletes participated in the leaders into the program going forward. Governance course, where they discussed key To learn more about Athlete Leadership issues affecting athletes and programs and programs taking place in your community, brought valuable ideas into play. They provided please contact Michelle Cruickshank at great insights and worked on their abilities to [email protected] or foster dialogue, which will help them as they 250-208-5402.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 39 SOBC Board of Directors

Special Olympics BC is very grateful to athlete, Li has been involved with Special have outstanding leadership and support Olympics for 11 years as a valued athlete and from our Board of Directors. We strongly volunteer at fundraising events, and he is the appreciate their contributions and co-Athlete Representative on the SOBC – dedication to ensuring the ongoing quality Richmond Local Committee. and value of the organization. Bergeron is the Executive Vice President At SOBC’s September 2016 AGM, we of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability of welcomed a number of Directors into Goldcorp, one of SOBC’s valued provincial British Columbia new executive roles, and we are grateful partners. Percy is the founder and President Chair: Randy Smallwood that they have taken on these important of the leading business improvement firm The Past Chair: Pamela Keith leadership positions. Randy Smallwood Percy Group Capital + Business Advisors. Vice Chair: Ted Hirst of Silver Wheaton was elected as Board We bid thank you and farewell to Victor de Secretary: Michael Campbell Chair, and Ted Hirst of Canaccord Genuity Bonis, COO of Canucks Sports & Entertainment, Treasurer: Colin Yakashiro moved into the role of Vice Chair. Pamela who has stepped down from the Board of Directors: Brent Bergeron Keith of Dueck Auto Group is Past Chair, Directors after two years of service. SOBC Michael Coyle while Money Talks host Michael Campbell also thanks Chuck Jeannes, former Goldcorp Grenville Finch-Noyes and Colin Yakashiro of Grant Thornton are President and CEO, who stepped down from Peter C. Kalbfleisch graciously continuing to serve as Secretary the Board after his retirement in February 2016. Vincent Li and Treasurer respectively. We are grateful for their valued contributions Richard J. Lucy SOBC is also excited to welcome three and dedication to Special Olympics. Colin MacKinnon new Directors who were elected at the Our sincere thanks to all of the members of Eamonn Percy 2016 AGM: Vincent Li, Brent Bergeron, the Board of Directors who so generously give Murray Shapiro and Eamonn Percy. An SOBC – Richmond their time to strengthen SOBC. Patty Wheeldon

SOBC in the spotlight at Luke Willson 12 North Sports Classic Special Olympics BC was very grateful to be The 12 North Classic included a nine-hole at Swangard Stadium. Willson and Virtanen a beneficiary of the inauguralLuke Willson golf tournament. SOBC – Delta athlete Chelsea assembled their respective teams consisting of 12 North Sports Classic, a multi-sport Kaake (pictured with Willson) kicked off the professional football players, alumni, hockey extravaganza held in Tsawwassen, Vancouver, Sports Classic by speaking at the Tsawwassen players, and celebrities and media personalities Burnaby, and Haida Gwaii from June 24 to 29. Springs Golf Course. from Vancouver and Seattle. Later that evening, 32 teams competed in SOBC – Vancouver athletes Alexander Pang a season long fantasy football competition to and Annabelle Davis were also part of the win great prizes and enjoyed a tailgate themed events, with Pang speaking at the NFL Fantasy barbecue dinner at the Yale Saloon. Football Draft and Davis supporting at the The following day, Willson was joined by Youth Football Camp at Swangard Stadium. All Seattle teammates and other special guests to the athletes impressed the many participants host a youth football camp and celebrity flag and celebrities involved in the events with their football game at Swangard Stadium, helping to speaking skills and sport accomplishments! inspire the next generation of young football The festivities wrapped up with the players while also raising funds and awareness 12 North Fishing Tournament in Haida for charity beneficiaries. Gwaii. Guests were drafted to one of four The Luke Willson Youth Football Camp was celebrity “captains’” teams and enjoyed the open to players ages eight to 18. The non- breathtaking beauty and rugged backdrop of contact camp consisted of drills and stations, Englefield Bay Lodge. lunch, a t-shirt, swag bag, and a photo with The Luke Willson 12 North Sports Classic Willson followed by a Q&A with professional benefitted Special Olympics BC, the Pacific players and coaches. Salmon Foundation, and provided grants for Following the youth camp, the 12 North youth football players. Celebrity Flag Football Game, featuring Our thanks to Luke Willson and everyone “General Managers” Willson and Vancouver who participated and supported to make all of Canucks forward Jake Virtanen, took place the events so successful!

40 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Volunteers share stories and create connections at Regional Conferences

Even though it was Super Bowl Sunday, presentations, and engage in fun team- even though it was the B.C. Family Day long building activities, all while enjoying the weekend, 60 terrific Region 3 and 4 volunteers beautiful oceanside scenery. came together on February 7 to learn and “Regional Conferences connect Locals rejuvenate at their Special Olympics BC and they connect people,” Region 6 Regional Conference. Coordinator Jean Tetarenko said. “We The participants were from every Region 3 don’t always acknowledge that we are all and 4 Local, giving a wonderful turnout and leaders. Conferences like this one give us an range of perspectives. Presentations included opportunity to explore that, to step away from a great panel on coaching, an informative our programs and connect with people who session on Special Olympics divisioning led by share the same passion for Special Olympics

Region 7 and 8 volunteers take part in a fun and informative Club Fit session.

that we do. You learn, you connect, and you have fun in the process.” More than 40 dedicated Region 1 and 2 volunteers came together for their Regional Conference at the beautiful Pines Bible Camp in Grand Forks. The fun and informative conference, which ran from April 30 to May 1, presented coaches and administrative volunteers from the two regions with a rare opportunity to get together to discuss their experiences, ask each other questions, and share successful strategies. Region 1 and 2 Conference participants came together to share ideas and learn from knowledgeable This year’s conference included a session and passionate speakers at their Regional Conference. on autism, which volunteers who attended the 2015 Region 1 and 2 Conference had SOBC Manager, Sport Shawn Fevens, SOBC – requested. Campbell River volunteer George Maclagan’s “The session on autism was very inspiring talk about volunteering and illuminating,” Region 2 Coordinator Sheila recruitment, and SOBC Vice President, Sport Paynter said. “We saw the world through Lois McNary’s energizing keynote address someone else’s eyes and it really helped about SOBC’s development and why she is explain some of the situations we have faced inspired to be still in the game after 33 years with athletes in the past.” with Special Olympics. Dedicated Region 7 and 8 volunteers The event’s location, the RCMP learned how to strengthen their Locals and headquarters in Surrey, provided a unique better serve SOBC athletes at their Regional setting and atmosphere that helped spark Conference. outside-the-box thinking, as did the structure Held at École Heather Park Elementary in of the presentations and lunch hour with an Prince George from September 30 to October expo on Special Olympics topics. 2, the conference was a great opportunity for In April, Region 6 volunteers went to camp volunteers to get together and share ideas. to develop their skills, create connections, During the conference, skilled SOBC – Prince and share inspiring stories at their Regional George coach Kim Kokesch led the almost 30 Conference. attendees in a Club Fit session. Through the Held at Camp Qwanoes on Vancouver session, volunteers learned how the Club Fit Island, the conference saw more than 40 program can help SOBC athletes achieve their volunteers from eight Locals take part in Region 6 Conference participants at beautiful fitness goals and motivate athletes of informative training sessions, attend inspiring Camp Qwanoes. all abilities.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 41 Celebrity champions change the world with Special Olympics

Special Olympics is an inspiring movement players and coaching staff for training and of athletes, families, coaches, volunteers, development events, and give SOBC access sponsors, and celebrities coming together to autographed memorabilia that creates key with the common goal of improving the lives fundraising opportunities for SOBC provincially of people with intellectual disabilities and and at the local level. They never hesitate to inspiring everyone to open their hearts to a support Special Olympics athletes by cheering wider world of human talents and potential. for them and raising When high-profile supporters stand up as awareness in their champions of our athletes and movement, online channels. it makes a difference. Special Olympics BC is For the second fortunate to have many champions from the straight year, Canucks world of professional and amateur sports who staff jumped at the give their time to support our movement and chance to work with advocate our athletes and cause. SOBC athletes on their They attend the Sports Celebrities Festival annual Live 2 Give day, presented by Silver Wheaton to show their where all staff spend support for Special Olympics; they give their a day volunteering time to provincial and local events to interact with Lower Mainland charities. Enthusiastic with our athletes and community; they lend and encouraging Canucks staff members ran Inset: National soccer team players Selenia Iacchelli (left) and Emily Zurrer (right) took the their voices to calls for awareness of Special a functional testing session to help SOBC Plunge alongside President & CEO Dan Howe. Olympics and respect and support for athletes. athletes track their fitness, strength, and Above: Surrey athlete Michaela Robinson and They make a difference by setting an example progress. BC Lions quarterback Travis Lulay were all for a more inclusive, respectful world. The BC Lions Football Club is a long- smiles at the 2016 Polar Plunge for Special Legendary broadcasters Howie Meeker and standing supporter of Special Olympics and Olympics BC. Bernie Pascall have long led the way in setting their players are great champions who attend this example of inspiration, part of a powerful events such as the Sports Celebrities Festival. tradition of support for Special Olympics Many players and leaders have enthusiastically 2015-16 Provincial Champions: gotten further involved, Wally Buono – BC Lions General Manager like quarterback Travis Ashleigh DeMerit (McIvor) – Olympic Lulay who has been an and world ski cross champion incredible champion Jay DeMerit – retired Whitecaps FC of Special Olympics defender throughout his years in Chris Higgins – NHL player B.C. and beyond. Marco Iannuzzi – BC Lions receiver Lulay gives significant Trevor Linden – Vancouver Canucks support to Special President of Hockey Operations Olympics through his Travis Lulay – BC Lions quarterback participation in events Howie Meeker – hockey legend and awareness-raising Cathy Priestner Allinger – Olympic in interviews and social speed skating medallist, 2014 National media. In 2016, Lulay even Games Chair braved the cold of English Angus Reid – retired BC Lions centre Vancouver Canucks staff enjoyed volunteering with SOBC athletes Bay in March to support Carl Valentine – Whitecaps FC club on their annual Live 2 Give day. Special Olympics, as he ambassador from the hockey world that helped establish participated in the first Vancouver Polar Plunge our movement in Canada. (Read more about for Special Olympics BC. National soccer team In addition, many stars and sports Meeker’s induction into the SOBC Hall of Fame players Emily Zurrer and Selenia Iacchelli organizations elsewhere in Vancouver and on page 23.) joined him in taking the Plunge to benefit in communities around B.C. generously give The Vancouver Canucks generously Special Olympics. their time and support to SOBC Locals. We help SOBC with their significant full-team Vancouver Whitecaps FC generously are so grateful to these champions for raising participation in the annual Sports Celebrities donates unique autographed memorabilia for awareness and support in their communities Festival in support of SOBC and the Canucks fundraising and gets their players and icons as well. for Kids Fund. Their generosity towards Special involved in Special Olympics events. They are Our sincere thanks to all of these valued Olympics continues year-round, as they provide quick to kindly help raise awareness in their supporters who back Special Olympics athletes ticket donations so athletes and coaches get web and social media channels and offer and lead the way with their examples of to attend games, offer assistance from their encouragement to SOBC athletes. respect and dignity!

42 Special Olympics BC Bulletin UFC joins forces with Endowment funds Special Olympics BC create lasting support for Special Olympics UFC made a financial contribution to Special Special Olympics athletes on martial arts Olympics British Columbia this year through technique, and discussed the discipline, honour, We are so grateful for support received its corporate social responsibility initiative, We and respect required to succeed in sport. through endowment funds, which create Are All Fighters. Symbolizing how everyone Our thanks to UFC for supporting opportunities with Special Olympics fights every day to overcome challenges Special Olympics! BC in perpetuity. In 2013, the John M. large and small, We Are All Sims Fund was initiated by friends of Fighters celebrates the fighter John Sims, a longtime Special Olympics in all of us and is designed to BC Board of Directors member and make a meaningful impact in champion of Special Olympics. This fund, communities where UFC as well as the Gordon Walker Fund, the events are held. Howard Carter Fund, and the Marge In support of the McNary Fund, will continue to provide contribution, UFC hosted an important support for Special Olympics introductory mixed martial arts BC for many years to come. workout for Special Olympics For more information on these funds athletes at DCS Fitness & or how to create an endowment fund Martial Arts. No.1-ranked for SOBC, please visit our website at flyweight contender Joseph specialolympics.bc.ca or contact Dan Benavidez, No.2-ranked Howe at 604-737-3079 or dhowe@ welterweight contender specialolympics.bc.ca. Stephen Thompson, and The To make a donation to an Ultimate Fighter Nations endowment fund: winner and UFC middleweight SOBC athletes attended an introductory mixed martial arts Online: Donation form at Elias Theodorou instructed workout led by UFC competitors. specialolympics.bc.ca (Please check the Tribute option, select the “In Tribute Of” button, and enter the name of the fund). Staff update By phone: 604-737-3180 / 1-888-854- 2276 toll-free 2016 has been a year of exciting changes for SOBC for new adventures over the summer, By mail: [Name of Fund] the Special Olympics BC staff team! and we wish her well in her exciting travels. c/o Special Olympics BC, #210 – 3701 We started the year by welcoming September brought us two new team Hastings Street, Burnaby, BC V5C 2H6 Fundraising Coordinator Meg Ishida to SOBC members, as Caitlin Woods-Rotering stepped as part of an internship in January. We are into the role of Fundraising & Communications delighted that Meg is now staying on with Coordinator and Ashten Staffen started as SOBC long-term in her new role. Health and Sport Science Coordinator. Caitlin Thank you! In February, we welcomed Communications recently returned home to B.C. from the U.K., Special Olympics BC thanks the following Coordinator Michael Obendoerfer to the team, and brought her experience working in individuals, foundations, corporations for their who has brought excellent communications fundraising abroad to the position. Ashten generous donations throughout the year to experience and his passion for sports to the is also a returning B.C. native, and has a strong assist us in supporting SOBC athletes. position. We bid farewell to Emma Woo in March, background in health, fitness, exercise physiology, as she embarked on a great opportunity to and sport nutrition to bring to the team. Individual donors further her dream of attending medical school. Beginning January 3, 2017, Lori Cruddas Michael Campbell The fundraising department sent their fond takes on the role of Manager, Community Ted Hirst wishes to Carolyn McCarthy in April, who left Development for northern B.C. She brings for a great opportunity managing educational more than 15 years of experience in Foundations events. Charlotte Taylor was excited to developing and growing programs for social Essential Needs Foundation step into the role of liaison to the BC Law service and health organizations throughout Hamber Foundation Enforcement Torch Run, and continues to the north. Lewis Family Foundation support Locals in their fundraising initiatives. Our best wishes have gone with Morgan Prairie Lily Fund In May, James Marchand joined us as Hunter and Charlene Flood as they have moved RBC Foundation Performance Program Coordinator, bringing a on to new adventures, Morgan in Victoria and background in behavioural neuroscience and Charlene in Prince George. Happily, both have In-kind donations volunteer experience with the Canucks Autism stayed involved with SOBC, Morgan as a Health Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP Network to the program team. Fundraising and and Sport Science Consultant and Charlene as Dueck Auto Group Communications Coordinator Eliot James left a volunteer with SOBC – Prince George. Group 5 Design Associates Ltd.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 43 Energy, inclusion highlights of BC Winter and Summer Games

BC Games give Special Olympics BC athletes BC Games SOBC athletics Head Coach the opportunity to compete alongside Deborah Carter of SOBC – Surrey said the up-and-coming young mainstream athletes team was “phenomenal on and off the field,” and para-sport peers, creating empowering and they came home with “hardware well experiences in both sport and social spheres. deserved, complete with smiles and good At July’s Abbotsford 2016 BC Summer memories.” Games, there were many inspiring examples Fifty-eight SOBC basketball players and of inclusion for the 39 participating SOBC 10 figure skaters got to experience the thrill swimming and track and field athletes, such of competition and make new friends at the as the connections sparked by SOBC – Prince Penticton 2016 BC Winter Games in February. George swimmer Sam Russell. SOBC – Quesnel’s Brock The engaging Russell enjoyed Terlesky got a lot out of playing socializing with swimmers from for the Cariboo-North East Zone around the province – many of 8 squad. Since many players on whom came to the SOBC team Terlesky’s team were not from throughout the competition to his Local, he says the event was SOBC – Langley athlete Michael Savage and have their photos taken with a great opportunity to mingle Surrey’s Malcolm Borsoi finished the 100m him. He said he had a great time with other SOBC athletes. sprint in 12.42 and 12.43 seconds, respectively. making new friends and talking “Eventually I pulled away about swimming, track and from my social anxiety and I Kimberly Giesbrecht securing silver, and SOBC field, golf, rugby, and football. got used to the other athletes – Surrey’s Krista Milne bringing home bronze. There were “such nice people and got friendly with them,” “The biggest thing is just getting the chance here – new friends, and my Terlesky said. to compete and show your program to the family,” said Russell, who was The Penticton 2016 BC world and getting a chance to just do what you supported by a cheering section Winter Games marked the love,” Walzak said in an interview for BC Games of supportive family. second time SOBC basketball TV, powered by viaSport British Columbia. “It’s surreal,” SOBC – players competed at BC Games, In the Special Olympics Men Level 2 event, Campbell River swimmer and the debut of the Special SOBC – Vancouver athlete Eric Pahima won Ashley Adie said of the BC Olympics figure skating event. the gold medal and SOBC – Port Alberni’s Games experience. “It’s a higher In the Special Olympics Matthew MacDonald picked up silver. SOBC level of competition … and Langley’s Jessi-lynn Gordon Women Level 2 figure skating – Richmond’s Matthew Lai captured the gold the energy is explosive. And heads for home in the 400m event, SOBC – Surrey athlete medal in the Special Olympics Men Level 3 everyone is so encouraging.” race at the Abbotsford 2016 Jennifer Utendale captured the event. Beyond the social and BC Summer Games. gold medal, SOBC – Victoria After two days of intense competition in inclusion opportunities, the athlete Desiree Grubell earned basketball, the Vancouver-Coastal Zone 5 team SOBC athletes competed with determination silver, and SOBC – Coquitlam’s Tracy Laberge and the Zone 8 team emerged as the top two and pride in the BC Games Special Olympics claimed bronze. squads. In the championship game, the Zone divisions, supported by their dedicated SOBC SOBC – Victoria skater Emily Walzak won 5 team mounted a thrilling comeback to win coaches from around the province. the gold medal in the Special Olympics Women the gold medal 25-19 on the final day of the Leading the way on the results sheets Level 3 event, with SOBC – Port Alberni’s tournament. were SOBC – Victoria swimmer Aly White, “Everyone was playing really hard who powered to an impressive nine gold and focused on winning the game,” medals, along with SOBC – Kamloops swimmer said SOBC – North Shore athlete Cameron Chambers, who raced to five gold Tyrone Liebenberg, a player on the medals, and SOBC – Surrey track and field Zone 5 team. “It was a really proud athletes Malcolm Borsoi, who earned four gold moment and it was amazing when and two silver as well as gold with the relay the final buzzer went and we saw team, and Melissa Semke, winner of four gold that we won.” medals and one bronze plus relay gold. In the bronze-medal game, the The competitors also did everyone proud by Fraser River Zone 4 team overcame putting up many personal-best performances. the Fraser Valley Zone 3 team in an In track and field, Borsoi logged three PBs extremely tight 29-28 finish. and Semke added another two, while Surrey’s Congrats and thanks to all the Thomas Rak notched two and Ethan Mountain SOBC athletes and coaches and to added one. The swimmers added a strong haul SOBC figure skaters performed with pride as they debuted BC Games organizers of PBs in the pool as well. their event at the Penticton 2016 BC Winter Games. and volunteers!

44 Special Olympics BC Bulletin Tim Hortons announced 2016 anniversary celebrations for as Special Olympics SOBC Locals Canada Platinum Level SOBC is so fortunate to have incredible athletes and volunteers in 57 communities around the province, and we are National Partner continually amazed by the long-standing volunteer dedication that makes Tim Hortons is now a Special Olympics programs possible all over B.C. Canada Platinum National Partner, Each year, SOBC recognizes the proudly joining 25 other partners of Locals who are marking anniversary the Special Olympics movement seasons, a testament to their inspiring in Canada. ongoing dedication to helping athletes “It is an honour to have such an and being part of this incredible iconic Canadian brand supporting the movement. We would like to share these movement,” says Sharon Bollenbach, anniversary celebrations so everyone can CEO, Special Olympics Canada. join in recognizing the achievements of “Tim Hortons’ support will help these Locals! provide greater resources for Special In 2016, the following Locals marked Olympics in communities across the anniversary years: country so more athletes and families can benefit from the transformative Happy 30th anniversary – est. in 1986 power of sport.” SOBC – Abbotsford Tim Hortons’ support will SOBC – Comox Valley directly benefit Active Start and SOBC – Dawson Creek FUNdamentals programs across the SOBC – Fort St. John country, and Tim Hortons will serve SOBC – Kimberley/Cranbrook Special Olympics Canada CEO Sharon Bollenbach as an official sponsor of Special joined Ontario athletes and Tim Hortons staff SOBC – Nanaimo Olympics Team Canada for the 2017 to celebrate the new partnership. SOBC – Prince George SOBC – Prince Rupert SOBC – Smithers Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria. Tim Hortons will also provide support Happy 25th anniversary – est. in 1991 at the provincial level and for the 2018 SOBC – Powell River National Summer Games taking place in SOBC – Trail Nova Scotia. As one of North America’s largest quick Happy 10th anniversary – est. in 2006 service restaurants, Tim Hortons will help bring SOBC – South Okanagan more awareness to Special Olympics in Canada. Through the Tims TV network and other Thank you to all the athletes and assets, Canadians will learn about the inspiring volunteers who make their Locals so abilities of those with an intellectual disability remarkable, and who make Special Team BC cross country skiing athletes and and how to get involved in Special Olympics’ Olympics BC such an inspiring, welcoming, coaches fuelled up at Tim Hortons during the world-class community and competitive empowering, and fun community! 2016 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games! programs across the country.

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Special Olympics BC Bulletin 45 Changing the game for athlete health

People with intellectual disabilities experience worse health care and access to services than others in their communities. Globally, millions of people with intellectual disabilities lack access to quality health care and experience dramatically higher rates of preventable disease, chronic pain and suffering, and premature death in every country around the world. In developing and developed countries alike, people with intellectual disabilities are consistently one of the most marginalized population subsets – a status that comes with horrific health outcomes, such as dramatically higher rates of premature death and obesity than the general population. Special Olympics Health programming is changing the game for athlete health. Our ultimate goal is to create a world where people with and without intellectual disabilities have the same opportunity to be healthy. Welcoming health professionals, like these Internationally, Special Olympics has volunteers in Cranbrook, make the Healthy become the largest public health Health Promotion screenings cover nutritional info in Athletes experience fun and accessible for all. organization for people with fun and interactive ways. intellectual disabilities. To address the health disparities our Special Olympics BC’s health offerings to receive specific training, or are not familiar athletes face, Special Olympics is leading a include Healthy Athletes screenings and enough with this population, to know the best number of integrated and complementary year-round health support including Club questions to ask to draw out the issues. efforts to strengthen the capacity of existing Fit programs, the information and support Through Healthy Athletes, health care systems of care. Special Olympics Health is offered through provincial programming such professionals receive training about the integrated into all Special Olympics sports, as the Performance Program and functional specific health care concerns of people with family, and youth programs, and also testing, the development of health, fitness, intellectual disabilities and how to ask the strengthens linkages with community care and nutrition resources on the SOBC website, right questions, helping them draw out issues. networks and other local partners who can and the new or expanded programming At the welcoming and fun-filled Healthy support the health and wellbeing of Special supported by our Special Olympics Healthy Athletes screening events, the practitioners’ Olympics athletes year-round. Communities grant from the Golisano interactions with Special Olympics athletes Foundation (read more lead to referrals back into the health care on page 48-49). system that ensure the individuals will get the SOBC Locals play a treatment they need. critical part in this work SOBC offers Healthy Athletes screenings by offering Club Fit in events around the province open to all programs, promoting individuals with intellectual disabilities, as health events and well as at Provincial Games. These events are resources, and free for all participants. All the screenings encouraging healthy are conducted in a fun, friendly environment living year-round. where athletes feel welcome and at ease. The screenings are conducted using quality Healthy Athletes equipment and fun tools to make the screenings experience both valuable and enjoyable. Many individuals with In 2016, SOBC hosted Healthy Athletes Carol Yakiwchuk intellectual disabilities Screening Days in North Vancouver (March), have trouble realizing Prince George (May), Burnaby (September), or expressing their and Cranbrook (October). health concerns, The incredible support of dedicated and many health volunteer health professionals and generous Participants leave Healthy Athletes screenings with tons of free professionals have not sponsors made it possible to provide these health tools and giveaways, including customized mouthguards. had the opportunity important and fun events, giving valuable

46 Special Olympics BC Bulletin All smiles at the Special Smiles screenings in Prince George.

his performance on the court, as well as to his safety in navigating himself through the city when he is by himself. The impact should be enormous,” McDougall said. SOBC – Vancouver athlete Robyn Rauh Testing blood pressure at the Health Promotion screenings in North Vancouver. said she has learned a lot through Healthy Athletes events, helping her get healthier, stay health information, referrals, and tools to confidence, and to the overall quality of their healthier, and destress. more than 300 individuals with intellectual lives,” B.C. Opening Eyes Clinical Director Dr. “When I’m at Healthy Athletes events, I find disabilities from around the province. Brad McDougall said. out different new things. I enjoy going a lot. “At [the Healthy Athletes event in North In a particularly memorable moment for It’s a whole new different experience for me,” Vancouver] we saw a few athletes that we McDougall, a basketball player received glasses Rauh said. “It’s a great experience, and I had seen at previous Healthy Athletes events, that will improve his vision from 20/150 (a level learned a lot.” Among the steps Rauh has taken and their parents and coaches described to us that would not be legal to drive a car without with the help of Healthy Athletes is using a how much the glasses we provided for them glasses) to nearly 20/20. pamphlet with healthy recipes that she received, have made a difference in their sport, in their “Imagine the difference this could make to and completely giving up drinking pop. continued on next page

The Prince George Fit Families & Friends before heading out on their first weekly walk.

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 47 continued from previous page

were great; they had a great time out on their Healthy Community Golisano walks together, enjoying the beautiful views Foundation grant and wildlife sightings. In 2016, SOBC was fortunate to receive a “We checked the step counter and showed three-year major grant from the Golisano them it really adds up, and you can do it,” Foundation to expand year-round health Richardson wrote in an email. “Yes, it works. I programming, working toward official said, ‘Can’t wait until next year!’ And they all recognition as a Special Olympics Healthy said yes as they had fun, and that’s the part Community. that works. Have fun and get healthy is With the support of the Healthy a lifestyle.” Communities grant, the Golisano Foundation, and our ongoing Provincial Partners, SOBC is Health Heroes working to: With the support of the Healthy Communities increase the sustainability of health grant, SOBC has initiated Health Heroes programming and access to followup care, training for SOBC athletes who wish to equip improve the health status of athletes by themselves to help educate their peers offering health and wellness programming about best practices for healthy living. At outside of our Healthy Athletes clinics and the April 2016 Athlete Leadership courses, 27 ensuring at least 20 per cent of athletes participants in the Athlete Speakers Bureau 2 are enrolled in a wellness program per year, and Governance completed training to become increase the awareness and education Kelowna Fit Families & Friends enjoyed scenic certified Sun Safety Health Heroes. of health professionals on treating summer walks together. These athlete leaders discussed best individuals with intellectual disabilities by practices for being outdoors and received developing and implementing education 2016. The inaugural participants in Prince tools to share in their communities, helping for dental professionals and students, George, Kelowna, and the Sunshine Coast fellow athletes stay healthy and safe in the sun create health programming for families showed wonderful dedication to being active throughout their spring sports and their active and caregivers of athletes, and healthy together, and they had a blast! lives outdoors. The participants demonstrated train and empower 10 athlete leaders to Together they walked, ran, and hiked more great ideas for how to implement their training be health and nutritional advocates for than 2,500 kilometres this summer. at home and enthusiasm to help others. fellow athletes and work with an advisory The vision of Fit Families & Friends is to help council for the SOBC health strategy athletes stay active over the summer months during the Healthy Community project and encourage their families, friends, and period, supporters to get active with them. At the end and create Golisano Health Leadership of each session, the program volunteer hands Awards to present to health leaders out a healthy snack that can be easily made at supporting this important work. home, and a corresponding recipe card. SOBC – Kelowna parent and coach Dennis Fit Families & Friends Richardson said the Fit Families & Friends With the support of the Golisano Foundation program worked very well as the participants Special Olympics Healthy Communities learned by doing together, and saw the results. grant, SOBC launched new Fit Families & They saw they could get out for a walk easily; Friends programming in the summer of they tasted the healthy snacks and found they

Donate your vehicle to SOBC

You can donate your vehicle to support Donate a Car will then forward the net Special Olympics BC – there is no cost to proceeds to SOBC, and we will send you a you, and it’s incredibly easy! Working on tax receipt. our behalf, Donate a Car takes care of the Your donation will help support the life- entire donation process from the pickup to changing sport programs SOBC offers to the final sale, and works to maximize the more than 4,600 people with intellectual dollar amount passed on to SOBC. disabilities around the province. Health Hero Marinka VanHage sharing sun Donating your car to support SOBC is To donate your vehicle, please visit safety tips and tools. a convenient and generous way to pass donatecar.ca. along or dispose of a vehicle. Donate SOBC – Prince George athlete Marinka a Car accepts cars, trucks, RVs, boats, VanHage took her tools and knowledge to motorcycles, and other vehicles, old or the Soccer Regional Qualifier for Region 8 new, running or not. Your vehicle will hosted by SOBC – Quesnel, where she helped either be recycled or sold at auction, her fellow athletes get up to speed on health depending on your vehicle and location. info. She shared sun safety advice as well as tools from SOBC such as bracelets that change

48 Special Olympics BC Bulletin colour in the sun, reminding about exposure, “Working with the athletes is wonderful,” and cardio, and can include nutrition and chapstick to help prevent sunburned lips. Yakiwchuk said in a 2013 British Columbia education. SOBC Locals are doing a great job VanHage filed the following report: Dental Hygienists’ Association interview. “We offering Club Fit and building participation “I spoke to all the athletes and coaches get a chance to talk to them, to teach them around the province, and SOBC is working to when we got [a group] picture taken. They about proper oral self-care and, in some cases, support with online resources and encouraging were listening when I explained about sun provide them with dental treatment that they the empowering connections that are growing safety. I asked them if they knew what to do would not ordinarily be able to receive. From between instructors. and then showed them the [educational items a more global perspective, we are also able For more information, please contact Ashten I was given]. to assess this population’s oral health status, Staffen [email protected] / “Then I went to each team later on and asked and evaluate the need for further advocacy 604-737-3081 or toll-free at 1-888-854-2276. if they needed anything. Most of the athletes based on results of the statistical analysis of already had sunscreen and water bottles but a International pilot project lot of them did not have lip chap so I gave them In 2016, SOBC became one of three Special lip chap. They really liked the bracelets. I think Olympics Programs part of an international that it was a good idea and I would do it again.” pilot project to build a model for workshops If you’d like to become a Health Hero, designed to bring together a wide range please contact Ashten Staffen, SOBC of people and groups whose work impacts Coordinator, Health & Sport Science, to learn the health of individuals with intellectual about training opportunities: astaffen@ disabilities. Special Olympics can bring specialolympics.bc.ca / 604-737-3081 / together these stakeholders to turn the 1-888-854-2276 toll-free. spotlight on the challenges facing people with intellectual disabilities and spark much-needed Golisano Health Leadership Award discussions on change. In September 2016, North Vancouver’s Carol In November 2016, SOBC staff and athlete Yakiwchuk became Canada’s first-ever winner Robyn Rauh travelled to Washington D.C. of a Golisano Health Leadership Award, for meetings to plan the creation of these recognizing her dedicated volunteer work with workshops and begin work for the events to SOBC and Healthy Athletes to help address the be hosted in 2017. We are excited about this significant health disparities facing individuals opportunity to make a difference in important with intellectual disabilities. systemic ways to help athlete health. A dental hygienist and educator with more than 20 years’ experience, Yakiwchuk Supporters volunteers with SOBC’s Healthy Athletes Globally, Special Olympics Health is made program, serving as one of three provincial possible by the vision and support of the Special Smiles Clinical Directors alongside Kelly Golisano Foundation, and partners such as Blundell and Nancy Vertel. the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and In her previous role as a dental hygiene Prevention, and Lions Clubs International. instructor at Vancouver Community College, Here in B.C., Special Olympics BC’s health work and in her involvement with the British is made possible by the Golisano Foundation grant Columbia Dental Hygienists’ Association, Golisano Foundation Director Ann Costello (left) and the ongoing support of our provincial partners Yakiwchuk raises awareness among dentists, presents Carol Yakiwchuk with her award. and fundraising events, including the leading role dental professionals, and students about of the Government of British Columbia. the health issues facing individuals with information collected. I love being there to intellectual disabilities, and she recruits others support these athletes as they strive for their to volunteer at SOBC’s Healthy Athletes personal best and their smiles make it all worth events. These efforts have a wide-reaching the work.” impact as they return to regular practice Launched in 2016, the Golisano Health better trained to work with individuals with Leadership Awards recognize the extensive intellectual disabilities. work of individuals and organizations around Yakiwchuk has also developed an important the world who are improving the health relationship with Patterson Dental Canada, of people with intellectual disabilities and leading to vital support with resources to give advancing the year-round health work of individuals with intellectual disabilities and Special Olympics. equipment for screenings. Thanks to Yakiwchuk’s advocacy, Vancouver Club Fit Community College selected the Special SOBC’s Club Fit program is raising the bar for Olympics population as an upcoming recipient physical fitness, and athletes are rising to the in their “Gift from the Heart” program. challenge and showing measurable benefits Through an event in April 2017, a number of from their participation. Club Fit helps athletes Special Olympics BC athletes will receive a of varying skill levels age 14 and up improve full dental exam free of charge at a clinic run their overall health and fitness outside of by VCC dental hygiene students under the regular sports training. Learn more supervision of instructors and dentists. The weekly program emphasizes strength specialolympics.bc.ca/healthy-athletes

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 49 Special Olympics BC Event Partners British Columbia

Special Olympics BC is very proud and fortunate to have sponsors. Without the support of these companies, as well as a host of others, Special Olympics BC would not be able to provide the quality sport programs we do. Please support those who support us!

THE Presenting Sponsor GOLDCORP INVITATIONAL

Greens Sponsor Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsors Logo Standards New Car Dealers Association of BC

Presenting Sponsor

Minimum size - For legibility, the logo must not be reduced smaller than shown - 32mm width

Major Sponsors Grey shading indicates Clear Space. This area must be kept clear of other elements.

LOGO COLOUR VARIATIONS Vehicle Donors

Donated by Donated by Donated by Donated by Chevrolet Buick GMC Dealers BC Ford Dealers BC Honda Dealers Toyota BC Dealers Pantone 280 Black of BC Association Pantone 280 Pantone 280 C100 M85 Y5 K20 K30 C100 M85 Y5 K20 30%

50 Special Olympics BC Bulletin

Black Black K100 K30 The logo should ideally always be on a white background, but if necessary, can be used as above, completely reversed out of a background colour.

FONTS USED IN LOGOTYPE

Impact Roman (angled 14°) Museo Slab 500 Italic

1234567890!@#$%^&*()_=+ 1234567890!@#$%^&*()_=+ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz

DON’T ABUSE YOUR LOGO

DON’T DISTORT YOUR LOGO DON’T REPOSITION ELEMENTS DON’T CHANGE COLOURS Special Olympics Canada National Partners Canada

Platinum Partners

1 Colour

C=22 M=100 Y=89 K=15 BRITISH COLUMBIA

Gold Partners

Canada

Silver Partners

Bronze

Friends

Special Olympics BC Bulletin 51 Special Olympics BC Provincial Partners British Columbia Logo Standards New Car Dealers Association of BC

Minimum size - For legibility, the logo must not be reduced smaller than shown - 32mm width

Grey shading indicates Clear Space. This area must be kept clear of other elements.

LOGO COLOUR VARIATIONSBRITISH COLUMBIA

Pantone 280 Black Pantone 280 Pantone 280 C100 M85 Y5 K20 K30 C100 M85 Y5 K20 30%

Black Black 1 Colour K100 K30 The logo should ideally always be on a white

C=22 background, but if necessary,M=100 can be used as above, Y=89 completely reversed outK=15 of a background colour.

FONTS USED IN LOGOTYPE

Impact Roman (angled 14°) Museo Slab 500 Italic

1234567890!@#$%^&*()_=+ 1234567890!@#$%^&*()_=+ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz Tel 604.737.3078 | Toll-free 1.888.854.2276 | Email [email protected] | www.specialolympics.bc.ca Facebook & Instagram specialolympicsbc | Twitter @sobcsociety DON’T ABUSE YOUR LOGO

52 Special Olympics BC Bulletin

DON’T DISTORT YOUR LOGO DON’T REPOSITION ELEMENTS DON’T CHANGE COLOURS