People
Becoming an Olympian
Several athletes from the Communitas family competed in the 2025 Special Olympics Summer Games in Prince George in early July. Competing in a variety of sports, they all said it was a great opportunity to improve in their chosen field, make new friends, and learn some things along the way.
At the Special Olympics BC games, athletes who live with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to use the joy of sport to show their abilities. More than 800 athletes and 300 volunteers from 46 communities across BC participated in this year’s summer games.
Communitas athletes competed in baseball, basketball, bocce, rhythmic gymnastics, and swimming. Each athlete prepared in their own way. Some spent time in individual preparation, running, doing sit-ups and push-ups. Some practiced with their team mates. All of them prepared by simply doing their chosen sport.
Brad, Crystal, Elizabeth, and Sam competed in Bocce. They all enjoyed meeting new people; Brad in particular, met someone significant.
“At the opening ceremony, I got to shake Premier David Eby’s hand,” Brad said, enthusiastically.
The experience taught each athlete something about themselves. Both Brad and Elizabeth learned that it’s important to do your best, to not be too hard on yourself, and know that everyone is going to be proud of you. Elizabeth also learned something about herself apart from sport.
“By going to Prince George, I learned to get over my fear of crowds and people,” she said.
Crystal was surprised to learn that she could play better than she thought she would, especially under the pressure of competition. Clara, who competed in basketball, enjoyed the bus ride to Prince George and she learned that she is fun to be with!
Robyn competed in rhythmic gymnastics, winning a bronze medal in mixed apparatus. She discovered that she can learn from her mistakes.
“I was doing new routines so I was struggling with my confidence. I thought I was going to mess up my next performance,” Robyn explains. “I had friends helping me calm down. If I didn’t have my friends, I would have been broken.”
Josh played with the Abbotsford Wildcats baseball team, which also brought home a bronze medal. His preparation included weights and cross training with soccer and track teams. Although it was great to win a medal, that was not the highlight for Josh.
“The best part was playing our best and having fun,” Josh says. “I learned that being a team player is what is most important.”
Nicole competed in swimming and experienced several firsts: it was her first provincials, her first time traveling with a team, and the first time traveling without either of her swim coaches. Even with a number of unknowns, Nicole had a great weekend, swimming in four events and bringing home two silver medals.
Whether or not they brought home a medal, each one of these athletes said the experience was something they’ll never forget. We congratulate each one of them on their successes!
(Photo credits for feature image of ceremonies and baseball team go to Special Olympics photographer Steven Dubas. All other images from the athlete’s families.)
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