Special Olympics begins the season

Special Olympics BC Vernon is gearing up for registration night Aug. 27 to welcome athletes and volunteer coaches

Club Fit, a non competitive sport for Special Olympic athletes, has been a favourite the last few years and the coach volunteers are ready to start another season.

“We can’t wait to start again after the long summer break. All of our athletes love to exercise to gain more confidence for the many sports they compete in,” says Nina Gretzmacher head coach for Club Fit. “They all come with big smiles to the work out sessions.

“Their positive attitude is contagious and all other volunteer coaches go home with a truly happy feeling”

Special Olympics BC Vernon provides high-quality sports programs for individuals of all ages with intellectual disabilities. The society strives to enrich lives, and celebrates personal achievement through positive sport experiences.

“Our biggest goal is to provide quality programs for our 100-plus athletes and to keep them physically active every day throughout the year,” said program coordinator Heidi Borgeaud.

The Vernon Local is always looking for new athletes joining their program with a great selection of sports for children, youth and adults of all ages. All programs are very well established and cater to all level of abilities from Novice to National Champions and lead to competitions throughout the province.

The upcoming registration night is highly anticipated and will be a social event for all athletes before the fall training starts.

“Volunteers are a huge part of our success. Volunteering with Special Olympics is an opportunity to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. It’s a meaningful contribution to our community,” said volunteer coordinator  Noelle Typusiak.

“We always need more hands and we hope to fill all vacant spots, especially with the many sport programs.”

Registration night for the 16 winter and summer sports will take Aug. 27 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Dorothy Alexander Centre, 3602-30th Ave., downtown Vernon. Dessert will be served and the coaches are available with information about their sport. Those who are interested in volunteering as a coach or in other positions for the charity are welcome to attend.

For more information, please  visit the website at www.sobcvernon.ca or call 250-306-8954.

 

Vernon Morning Star