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December 2024 - THE RETURN OF A TRADITION
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This holiday season marked the resurgence of a long-standing Special O. tradition. On Tuesday, December 3rd, 100 Special Olympics athletes, their families, coaches and volunteers gathered together in Roberts Creek at the Sunshine Coast Golf and Country Club for their first holiday event in 5 years.
Continue reading Mike's 12th spotlight of 2024 |
NOVEMBER 2024 - OUR MENTAL HEALTH & WINTER SPORTS UPDATE
Mental Health. Truly something that is important to everyone, especially those in the Diversability Community. Special Olympics BC in conjunction with many specialists, hosted a free virtual mental wellness Family Health Forum on Monday, October 21st. It was designed to “support mental wellness by offering practical insights into mental health literacy, recognizing when to seek help, and learning stress reduction techniques”.
Continue reading Mike's latest spotlight on Special O Sunshine Coast
Continue reading Mike's latest spotlight on Special O Sunshine Coast
SCSO FALL SPORTS REGISTRATION - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 26
| 2024 2025 Athlete Registration Form |
September 2024 - On your mark, get set…GOOOO SPECIAL O!
The fall/winter/2025 season is once again upon us. On September 26 at 4:30pm athletes and volunteers will drop by SCACL offices on Mermaid Avenue in Sechelt to register for their fave sports. It will be a chance for all to share stories of travel, camping, beaches, and summer jobs and to catch up with friends. Hope to see new athletes this month! It’s always terrific to see fresh faces. Continue reading on SOSC Sports plans for Fall 2024!
August 2024 - Global Week of Inclusion ALL YEAR IN OUR COMMUNITY
Global Week of Inclusion runs from July 15th to 21st. Inclusion is so much more than a word. Being accepted and welcomed by society is what everyone wants, especially those with disabilities. In sports or the workforce, folks with diversabilties have what it takes and more to get the job done.
Read our Athlete Reporter Michael Oswald's insightful full article that celebrates inclusion happening on the Sunshine Coast all year.
Read our Athlete Reporter Michael Oswald's insightful full article that celebrates inclusion happening on the Sunshine Coast all year.
JULY 2024 WRAP OF OUR SPORTS SEASON
As programs came to a close for the summer, Special O wrapped up the sports season with a bang.
Our Annual General Meeting was held in Gibsons at the Library of Gibsons Elementary. After each member of the Executive gave their final reports, the nomination and election of officers for the coming year closed out the meeting. The executive members for 2024/25 are:
Local Coordinator - Randy Younghusband
Program Coordinator – Gavin Weiner
Volunteer Coordinator – position open
Treasurer -Helene Johnston
Registration Coordinator Allyson Pearson
Public Relations Coordinator Helen Halet
Secretary – Pat Stuart
As you can see, we would be happy to have a fresh face undertake the position of Volunteer Coordinator. Please reach out if you are interested in learning more about Special O on the Sunshine Coast.
Continue reading Mike's full article wrapping softball and soccer closing games, bocce news, and athletes heading to S.O. Provincial Games this summer here.
Our Annual General Meeting was held in Gibsons at the Library of Gibsons Elementary. After each member of the Executive gave their final reports, the nomination and election of officers for the coming year closed out the meeting. The executive members for 2024/25 are:
Local Coordinator - Randy Younghusband
Program Coordinator – Gavin Weiner
Volunteer Coordinator – position open
Treasurer -Helene Johnston
Registration Coordinator Allyson Pearson
Public Relations Coordinator Helen Halet
Secretary – Pat Stuart
As you can see, we would be happy to have a fresh face undertake the position of Volunteer Coordinator. Please reach out if you are interested in learning more about Special O on the Sunshine Coast.
Continue reading Mike's full article wrapping softball and soccer closing games, bocce news, and athletes heading to S.O. Provincial Games this summer here.
June 2024 SPOTLIGHT ON OUR 30TH CELEBRATION
On May 26th in Kinsmen Hall at Dougall Park in Gibsons, Our incredible Local Special Olympics British Columbia Sunshine Coast celebrated 30 Years of friendship, sports and fun. Huge thanks to Shawn Boyd for opening the Hall to keep us all dry during a significant rainfall.
The event was attended by over 65 people, some of who travelled from off Coast to share in the good times. Laurie Miller, aka Ms Soccer and one of the first coaches in soccer and basketball, arrived from Nanaimo and met up with her old teammate Samantha Giampa. Marie Telder, former Orca swim team coach and Executive Member came from Port Alberni, to the delight of her former swimmers. Relatives of Peter Twohig, athlete, came to honour his memory. Former athlete Michael Horth arrived from across the water with his mother Debbie who was also a former Executive member. Paul Lith, the organizer for our Gala of Stars in 2011, attended with his son Derek and wife Rosemary. It was also great to see David Thomas and Dave Sandness, both retired coaches who dropped by to help ring in the celebration.
Local Coordinator Randy Younghusband, with assistance from athletes Genny Verge & Micheal Oswald, welcomed everyone and spoke about what Special Olympics means to them. The trio also presented long time volunteers with service pins to commemorate their years of dedication.
Five, ten, fifteen and twenty year pins were awarded to twelve members. Pat Stuart and Sandi Cavalier who have worn many hats over the years both received twenty-year pins.
Many athletes were also acknowledged for their dedication to sport with special note made about Amanda Boghean and Theresa Bystead for their 3 decades with S.O.
An awesome slideshow featuring many fabulous memories ran continuously throughout the event. New posters celebrating Special O on the Coast were added to our growing collection and all in attendance enjoyed new photo albums as they reminisced and socialized.
The event was attended by over 65 people, some of who travelled from off Coast to share in the good times. Laurie Miller, aka Ms Soccer and one of the first coaches in soccer and basketball, arrived from Nanaimo and met up with her old teammate Samantha Giampa. Marie Telder, former Orca swim team coach and Executive Member came from Port Alberni, to the delight of her former swimmers. Relatives of Peter Twohig, athlete, came to honour his memory. Former athlete Michael Horth arrived from across the water with his mother Debbie who was also a former Executive member. Paul Lith, the organizer for our Gala of Stars in 2011, attended with his son Derek and wife Rosemary. It was also great to see David Thomas and Dave Sandness, both retired coaches who dropped by to help ring in the celebration.
Local Coordinator Randy Younghusband, with assistance from athletes Genny Verge & Micheal Oswald, welcomed everyone and spoke about what Special Olympics means to them. The trio also presented long time volunteers with service pins to commemorate their years of dedication.
Five, ten, fifteen and twenty year pins were awarded to twelve members. Pat Stuart and Sandi Cavalier who have worn many hats over the years both received twenty-year pins.
Many athletes were also acknowledged for their dedication to sport with special note made about Amanda Boghean and Theresa Bystead for their 3 decades with S.O.
An awesome slideshow featuring many fabulous memories ran continuously throughout the event. New posters celebrating Special O on the Coast were added to our growing collection and all in attendance enjoyed new photo albums as they reminisced and socialized.
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The BBQ prepared by Gibsons Fire Department members Phil & Laura, provided yummy hot dogs and burgers. Dessert was a delicious half chocolate, half vanilla cake donated by Claytons Heritage Market.
Thanks to Allyson Pearson, Pat Stuart and Helene Johnston who arranged for food, invitations and overall organization. Thanks to Randy Younghusband for all the amazing technical support and acting as MC. Thanks to Denise Brooks and Helen Halet for helping to showcase our athletes, coaches and volunteers both past and present with posters and photos. |
Thanks also to Helene Johnston for preparing indoor mini putt golf that sure was a hit. Gavyn Weiner showed gusto and lots of energy while setting up the Kinsmen Hall and dismantling it after the party. Key parents and volunteers were also on hand to help in countless ways.
Finally, our gratitude to SuperValu for the grant they awarded to our Local to help fund this event.
All in all, it was fun, full of memories and friends.
Can’t wait for the big 4-0
Finally, our gratitude to SuperValu for the grant they awarded to our Local to help fund this event.
All in all, it was fun, full of memories and friends.
Can’t wait for the big 4-0
PLANNING CELEBRATIONS FOR 30 YEARS OF SPECIAL O SUNSHINE COAST
This May represents a milestone for our Little Local that could. We’ve been in the game for 30 Years! From 5 pin bowling humble beginnings to swimming, track and many others along with many, medals and tons of ribbons, SOSC has truly proved itself a force to be reckoned with!
On May 26th from 2-4 at Dougall Park we will be celebrating our achievements and remembering what makes us Special! Everyone is invited. We look forward to sharing our smiles with the community. Keep an eye out for more information, coming to an article near you as well as other postings.
Of course, so much of what keeps our programs running is the donation of both time and money from dedicated and generous community members and organizations. Sunshine Coast Self Storage has stepped up for Special O with their significant contribution to our cause! Many Thanks from all the Athletes and Coaches.
On May 26th from 2-4 at Dougall Park we will be celebrating our achievements and remembering what makes us Special! Everyone is invited. We look forward to sharing our smiles with the community. Keep an eye out for more information, coming to an article near you as well as other postings.
Of course, so much of what keeps our programs running is the donation of both time and money from dedicated and generous community members and organizations. Sunshine Coast Self Storage has stepped up for Special O with their significant contribution to our cause! Many Thanks from all the Athletes and Coaches.
May 2024 Spotlight on Special Olympics
SOBC tells us that across BC, a little over a thousand volunteers help sports programs run and make a difference in thousands of lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Prior to the pandemic however, that number was much higher. The goal today is to have those numbers reach previous levels.
And I’ve said before, to be a volunteer in any capacity is infinitely rewarding, but especially in Special O. Not only do the athletes benefit, so do you, when you see the accomplishments of athletes and the pride and joy of their families. Continue reading
And I’ve said before, to be a volunteer in any capacity is infinitely rewarding, but especially in Special O. Not only do the athletes benefit, so do you, when you see the accomplishments of athletes and the pride and joy of their families. Continue reading
Along with Spring, we welcome Spring Sports!
Soccer stars will run the field with Head Coach Richard Hoath at Gibsons Elementary Mondays 6-7:30 opening April 8th. Bases will be loaded for Softball on Tuesdays at Hackett Park with Head Coach Randy Younghusband from 6:30-8. Tania Finnigan, Head Coach of Track will once more work on her athletes’ strengths every Wednesday at Elphinstone track from 6-7 starting on April 10th. Golfers will putt the green with Head Coach Chuck Bertrand on Wednesdays as well starting April 10th at Blue Ocean Golf Club. Elphinstone will also host Bocce as players will bask in the sun with Head Coach Judy MacDonald from 12-1 on Saturdays beginning April 6th. Read more April updates from our Athlete Reporter Michael Oswald here.
March 2024 Spotlight on Special Olympics
February. What. A. Month! Special O on the Coast definitely put the FUN in fundraising! Read more...
SPECIAL O DONUT DAY AT TIM HORTONS GIBSONS IN SUPPORT OF SPECIAL OLYMPICS CANADA
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Some of our community of athletes and volunteers celebrating the day with their favourite donut, joined by local Tim Hortons owner Klaus Fuerniss with Pat Stuart (bottom right).
REMEMBERING BILL CLIMIE, January 1937-January 2024
We are saddened to share the news of Bill Climie’s passing. He was a kind and generous person who was a fabulous volunteer coach with Special Olympics Sunshine Coast. Read more of Bill's contribution to Special O. Donation in memory of Bill can be to our local Treasurer Helene Johnston, treasurer 179 Grandview Road, Gibsons, BC V0N 1V3
Picture is taken at Abbotsford curling bonspiel – Bill Climie in left front and George Proudfoot in right front with members of the SOBC curling team
Second month of the New Year. It just feels Special!
February 2024 Spotlight from our Athlete Reporter Mike Oswald
However, we must start with some sad news in our little corner of the S.O. world. Beloved curling and bocce coach Bill Climie has passed away, after a long time in and out of hospital. He was instrumental in bringing curling to our local and also recruiting our volunteers. He will be sorely missed and proudly remembered. (Bill Climie is back row, 4th from right. Photo Credit Denise Brooks) Continue reading more news from Mike.
However, we must start with some sad news in our little corner of the S.O. world. Beloved curling and bocce coach Bill Climie has passed away, after a long time in and out of hospital. He was instrumental in bringing curling to our local and also recruiting our volunteers. He will be sorely missed and proudly remembered. (Bill Climie is back row, 4th from right. Photo Credit Denise Brooks) Continue reading more news from Mike.
December 2023 Spotlight on Special Olympics
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Deck the halls! It’s that time of year and some Special Olympics cheer! Read the full update from our athlete reporter Mike Oswald.
We are now on Instagram where you can find Mike's very first few interviews. Stay tuned for more over time. https://www.instagram.com/moswaldathletereporter/ |
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ATHLETE REMINDERS FOR 2023/2024 SPORTS
- Please contact your coach if you will be away from practice for any reason.
- No sports on holidays or when schools are closed if the program is offered in a gym.
- Please remember a Special Olympics shirt is required uniform for practise – no jeans. If you need one, please tell your coach what size so we can order one.
APRIL 2023 SPOTLIGHT - WINTER SPORTS WRAP AND SPRING STARTS
Read the full article from our Athlete Reporter Mike Oswald. Some highlights....On March 12th, Orca swim team athletes Hailey Borowski, Genny Verge, Lindsay Pearson, Lisa Wortley and Stephanie Rogers attended a swim meet in Coquitlam and all came home proudly bearing brand new personal bests!!
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Coach Dave Sandness was presented with a Ten Year Coaching pin for his decade of dynamite skill in guiding his athletes to set the ice aflame!!
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Our Special Olympics basketball team in Gibsons wrapped their season with a game against players from the local women’s drop in league. Head coach Sam said it was a fun game with lots of skills, team work, and as usual high 5’s all around at the final buzzer. Amanda Boghen finished the night as lead scorer. Basketball starts up again in the fall.
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SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES CONNECTING THROUGH SPORT FOR COMMUNITY AND FUN
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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.
Thank you from Special O to our dedicated generous donors over the past few years. 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)
District of Sechelt ($2,000)
Sunshine Coast Regional District ($1,500)
Town of Gibson ($1,000).
Sunshine Coast Community Foundation ($3,000)
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.
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)
