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SPRING SPORTS ARE STARTING IN MARCH!!!
March 11, 2022
Great news. Spring sports are starting soon.
Click here for all the details from our Athlete Reporter.
Great news. Spring sports are starting soon.
Click here for all the details from our Athlete Reporter.
WINTER SPORTS UPDATE
November 19, 2021
Athletes showed no rust as they returned to the curling rink after a two-year COVID-caused hiatu. With the coming of the cold, Special O is coming in hot!
A reminder to all participants: Everyone 12 and up must be fully vaccinated (two doses) with a maximum group size of 50. Everyone must wear a mask when off the field of play.
Basketball started on Thursday, Nov. 4 in Gibsons Elementary Gym with head coach Samantha Giampa.
Samantha contributed this terrific summary:
“It was so wonderful to be back at Gibsons basketball on Thursday. We did our vaccination passport sign-in and then went right into a warm up and ball handling. (Of course, there was some friendly catch-up and chit-chat as we hadn’t seen each other all together in person for such a long time!) We also managed some passing, shooting, and a quick drill to close. The coaches felt like the athletes were in great shape and did not look rusty at all. We think we are in for a fun season!”
Curling, another favourite sport for many, has started again thanks to the generosity of our community organizations. A $1,000 grant from the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation and a matching grant from Telus, provided the funding to purchase necessary equipment: sticks, grippers, brooms and sliders.
Coach Randy Younghusband (who doubles as Local Coordinator for SOSC) helped head coach Dave Sandness guide 13 athletes on Saturday, Nov. 6. From all accounts, the athletes were excited to be back at it! A huge thanks as well to Judy Macdonald, John Stewart and the Gibsons Curling club volunteers Diane Penonzek and Chris Reynolds.
Randy had this to say: “A lot of familiar faces getting together to complete the paperwork needed for Curling Canada’s return to sport protocols. While that delayed the return to ice, when the athletes did get out on the sheets, they were sporting some new, individual, equipment as part of the protocols.
When the games started, the athletes showed no rust after a two-year hiatus! The weight of deliveries was great; there were a lot of rocks in play, a bit of focus on the handle/turns of the rocks, and a few take-outs! It was the typical vibe that makes curling such a good sport: supportive, enjoyable, a few celebrations and positive etiquette.”
Don’t forget. Programs like these and others depend not only on financial generosity but also that of time! Volunteers are desperately needed to ensure SOSC’s continuance of sports. Training is free. Anyone interested can contact Allyson Pearson at imaparadis@dccnet.com for more information.
I told you we were ready. Now it’s go time!
Mike Oswald, Athlete Reporter
Athletes showed no rust as they returned to the curling rink after a two-year COVID-caused hiatu. With the coming of the cold, Special O is coming in hot!
A reminder to all participants: Everyone 12 and up must be fully vaccinated (two doses) with a maximum group size of 50. Everyone must wear a mask when off the field of play.
Basketball started on Thursday, Nov. 4 in Gibsons Elementary Gym with head coach Samantha Giampa.
Samantha contributed this terrific summary:
“It was so wonderful to be back at Gibsons basketball on Thursday. We did our vaccination passport sign-in and then went right into a warm up and ball handling. (Of course, there was some friendly catch-up and chit-chat as we hadn’t seen each other all together in person for such a long time!) We also managed some passing, shooting, and a quick drill to close. The coaches felt like the athletes were in great shape and did not look rusty at all. We think we are in for a fun season!”
Curling, another favourite sport for many, has started again thanks to the generosity of our community organizations. A $1,000 grant from the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation and a matching grant from Telus, provided the funding to purchase necessary equipment: sticks, grippers, brooms and sliders.
Coach Randy Younghusband (who doubles as Local Coordinator for SOSC) helped head coach Dave Sandness guide 13 athletes on Saturday, Nov. 6. From all accounts, the athletes were excited to be back at it! A huge thanks as well to Judy Macdonald, John Stewart and the Gibsons Curling club volunteers Diane Penonzek and Chris Reynolds.
Randy had this to say: “A lot of familiar faces getting together to complete the paperwork needed for Curling Canada’s return to sport protocols. While that delayed the return to ice, when the athletes did get out on the sheets, they were sporting some new, individual, equipment as part of the protocols.
When the games started, the athletes showed no rust after a two-year hiatus! The weight of deliveries was great; there were a lot of rocks in play, a bit of focus on the handle/turns of the rocks, and a few take-outs! It was the typical vibe that makes curling such a good sport: supportive, enjoyable, a few celebrations and positive etiquette.”
Don’t forget. Programs like these and others depend not only on financial generosity but also that of time! Volunteers are desperately needed to ensure SOSC’s continuance of sports. Training is free. Anyone interested can contact Allyson Pearson at imaparadis@dccnet.com for more information.
I told you we were ready. Now it’s go time!
Mike Oswald, Athlete Reporter
Its that time of year again...REGISTRATION for Sunshine Coast Special O
September 2021
We plan to do in person and email registration for this year, whatever you are most comfortable with. We do need each of our athlete to register for the coming season. September 21 4:30 at the SCACL office in Sechelt for in person. Your registration form can be filled out and emailed to Allyson.
September 2021
We plan to do in person and email registration for this year, whatever you are most comfortable with. We do need each of our athlete to register for the coming season. September 21 4:30 at the SCACL office in Sechelt for in person. Your registration form can be filled out and emailed to Allyson.
| 5d_athlete_registation_form_202122.pdf |
2021/2022 COACH & VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION
September 2021
All current volunteers need to fill out 2 forms at the start of each year.
Form 1 is the 2021-2022 registration form to the right, which can filled and emailed to Marney, our local volunteer coordinator. A couple notes from Marney on the form "Do not forget to put your name and local on the top of the second page. You can type your name in the signature box on the second page. It is assumed to be your signature."
Form 2 is the Participant Waiver and Media Opt In or Out form that can be filled online here. Filling the Participant Waiver on-line submits it directly to Head Office in Vancouver. It also has info for applying for the CRC if you need to.
All current volunteers need to fill out 2 forms at the start of each year.
Form 1 is the 2021-2022 registration form to the right, which can filled and emailed to Marney, our local volunteer coordinator. A couple notes from Marney on the form "Do not forget to put your name and local on the top of the second page. You can type your name in the signature box on the second page. It is assumed to be your signature."
Form 2 is the Participant Waiver and Media Opt In or Out form that can be filled online here. Filling the Participant Waiver on-line submits it directly to Head Office in Vancouver. It also has info for applying for the CRC if you need to.
| 2021_2022_volunteer_registration_form_-_v1.pdf |
Interested in becoming a coach or volunteer with Special Olympics on the Sunshine Coast? Special Olympics BC has a web page with tons of resources on becoming a volunteer. And please reach out to us - we would love to hear from you.
Special O on the Coast is swimming along!
June 2021
June 2021 Spotlight ARTICLE FROM Mike Oswald
The Orca’s Mission to Adopt A Block has passed our goal of $5,500. The Go Fund Me Orcas page shows $5,935! Other donations will bring the total even higher. Coach Cathy will have more information soon. The swim event on the 29th saw 10 dedicated swimmers ... read more
June 2021 Spotlight ARTICLE FROM Mike Oswald
The Orca’s Mission to Adopt A Block has passed our goal of $5,500. The Go Fund Me Orcas page shows $5,935! Other donations will bring the total even higher. Coach Cathy will have more information soon. The swim event on the 29th saw 10 dedicated swimmers ... read more
ONE MONTH INTO THE NEW YEAR
February 2021
Special Olympics Article by Mike Oswald, Athlete Reporter
One month in…so far so good! Let’s not kid ourselves, COVID-19 is still very real, so, Special O start up plans are a mixed bag. As you know, the province-wide restrictions on group events and social gatherings have been extended until February 5, 2021. Therefore in-person programs are suspended. Getting back to the old normal still seems like an eternity away, however there are plans in place for when it does come to fruition... continue reading the full article
Special Olympics Article by Mike Oswald, Athlete Reporter
One month in…so far so good! Let’s not kid ourselves, COVID-19 is still very real, so, Special O start up plans are a mixed bag. As you know, the province-wide restrictions on group events and social gatherings have been extended until February 5, 2021. Therefore in-person programs are suspended. Getting back to the old normal still seems like an eternity away, however there are plans in place for when it does come to fruition... continue reading the full article
DECEMBER 2020 UPDATE
Thank you from Special O to our generous donors this year. Funds were directed to our Special Olympics swim program.
District of Sechelt ($2,000)
Sunshine Coast Regional District ($1,500)
Town of Gibson ($1,000).
Sunshine Coast Community Foundation ($3,000)
Happy Holidays to our all our athletes and volunteers.
Further background and resources
To help athletes stay active during this hiatus, everyone can check out the at-home training and health resources on the Special Olympics BC website. We will also continue our social media posts celebrating Special Olympics BC members as well as sharing wellness reminders and resources. So please do feel free to suggest everyone can talk with us on social media to stay connected and encouraged!
The BC Centre for Disease Control says the most important things you can do to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses are to:
Special Olympics BC recommends using B.C. and Canadian health authorities for information on COVID-19, including:
Hand washing tips from Special Olympics Health Messenger Nyasha Derere
District of Sechelt ($2,000)
Sunshine Coast Regional District ($1,500)
Town of Gibson ($1,000).
Sunshine Coast Community Foundation ($3,000)
Happy Holidays to our all our athletes and volunteers.
Further background and resources
To help athletes stay active during this hiatus, everyone can check out the at-home training and health resources on the Special Olympics BC website. We will also continue our social media posts celebrating Special Olympics BC members as well as sharing wellness reminders and resources. So please do feel free to suggest everyone can talk with us on social media to stay connected and encouraged!
The BC Centre for Disease Control says the most important things you can do to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses are to:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid others who are unwell, and if you are sick yourself, stay away from others. Contact your health-care provider ahead of time so you can be safely assessed.
Special Olympics BC recommends using B.C. and Canadian health authorities for information on COVID-19, including:
- The BC Centre for Disease Control – www.bccdc.ca
- The Public Health Agency of Canada – https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
Hand washing tips from Special Olympics Health Messenger Nyasha Derere
SPECIAL OLYMPICS SUNSHINE COAST
We are a volunteer, non-profit organization providing sport, recreation training and competition to athletes with intellectual disabilities on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia. We have over 60 athletes participating in the 13 programs we offer here on the Sunshine Coast.
Every day we see the impact that Special Olympics has on those involved - from the athletes, volunteers, coaches and parents, to the community at large. Athletes pay a minimal fee to participate in the sport. The remaining cost of running our programs through local and provincial fundraising activities.
We are always actively recruiting for new coaches, assistant coaches, general volunteers and executive members. If you are interested in finding out more then please contact us.
Every day we see the impact that Special Olympics has on those involved - from the athletes, volunteers, coaches and parents, to the community at large. Athletes pay a minimal fee to participate in the sport. The remaining cost of running our programs through local and provincial fundraising activities.
We are always actively recruiting for new coaches, assistant coaches, general volunteers and executive members. If you are interested in finding out more then please contact us.
WRAPPING UP THE WINTER
Our athletes and coaches have just wrapped a busy fall/winter schedule of Special Olympics sports - floor hockey, community fitness, basketball, swimming, rhythmic gymnastics, and curling. Lots of great time together building scrimmage skills and friendships. Our sports and executive meeting calendar is updated regularly with the latest on events happening every day of the week except Sundays.
ATHLETES DID 'GREAT' AT COQUITLAM BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
Thirteen athletes from the Sunshine Coast Special Olympics Basketball program attended a tournament in Coquitlam on Saturday , February 22. The coast athletes split into two teams and each team played four games. Opponents were teams from Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Richmond, Coquitlam, and North Vancouver.
Coaches reported their athletes showed improved skills such as heads-up passing and shooting the ball under pressure. They also displayed fantastic sportsmanship and represented the coast admirably. Everyone had a fun day and came home exhausted and exhilarated.
Coaches reported their athletes showed improved skills such as heads-up passing and shooting the ball under pressure. They also displayed fantastic sportsmanship and represented the coast admirably. Everyone had a fun day and came home exhausted and exhilarated.
COAST ATHLETE WINS 3 GOLD MEDALS AT THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES
March 16, 2019
We had some exciting news this spring. Our swim athlete Genny Verge has won 2 Gold medals at the Special Olympic World Games in Abu Dhabi. Congratulations Genny!! We are all so proud of her and the dedication and training she has demonstrated– her coaches and training staff are to be congratulated too!!!
We had some exciting news this spring. Our swim athlete Genny Verge has won 2 Gold medals at the Special Olympic World Games in Abu Dhabi. Congratulations Genny!! We are all so proud of her and the dedication and training she has demonstrated– her coaches and training staff are to be congratulated too!!!
Come volunteer with Special O on the Coast!
We have several coaching positions open for new volunteers. Curious to learn more? Have a look at what we offer and how we support volunteers on the Volunteer Information page. Connect with one of the coaches to hear the rewarding experience of coaching Special O. All the contact details are here.
our Program aims & goals
- Provide high-quality sport programs and competitions to meet the needs and interests of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- Enrich lives and celebrate personal achievements through positive sport experiences.
- Help to instill and improve self-esteem and physical awareness and enhance capabilities.
- Provide quality coaching.
- Promote sportsmanship and teamwork.
- Provide the opportunity to participate in local, regional, provincial, national and international competition.
- Provide opportunities for athletes to develop social skills, cultivate friendships, and to strive for and achieve goals.
did you know?
Did you know that there are Special Olympics programs offered in over 180 countries and that Special Olympics is an international organization founded by the Joseph P. Kennedy Foundation?
In 1980, Special Olympics BC was established as an accredited chapter of Special Olympics Canada.
To read more about the Special Olympics organization, please click on the links below:
* Special Olympics BC
* Special Olympics Canada
* International Special Olympics
* Region 5 (North Shore, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver, Squamish & Richmond)
In 1980, Special Olympics BC was established as an accredited chapter of Special Olympics Canada.
To read more about the Special Olympics organization, please click on the links below:
* Special Olympics BC
* Special Olympics Canada
* International Special Olympics
* Region 5 (North Shore, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver, Squamish & Richmond)