The sports programs offered by Special Olympics in Vernon are growing and so is the enthusiasm of their participants.
“I love this new sport,” said Jesse Dewing, after finishing a bocce game in Polson Park on a rainy Saturday afternoon. “This is so awesome and look at all my friends who come out to play with me.”
Twenty athletes are out there rain or shine trying to roll the bocce balls as close as possible to the pallina. This is as much a social event as it is fierce competition.
“All of our athletes love to win, but they are also proud of their accomplishments and skills,” said Judy Button, the head coach for bocce. “When they see themselves improving it builds their self esteem, which reflects into their social life with family and friends. This is worth more than any gold medal and puts the true meaning of sport into perspective for all of us.”
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.
“We are always trying to extend our programs for our more than 100 athletes and the goal is to keep them physically active every day throughout the year,” said program coordinator Heidi Borgeaud. “We added basketball to our 15 established programs this year and are expecting lots of athletes in this fast-paced and very attractive sport.”
Vernon Special Olympics is always looking for new athletes to join their program. There is a great selection of sports for children, youth and adults of all ages. From a fitness class, to power lifting, skiing, soccer and golf, just to mention a few, all programs are very well established and cater to all levels of abilities from novice to national champions. Most athletes participate in more than one sport.
The upcoming registration night is highly anticipated and will be a social event for all athletes before the fall training starts.
A big part of the success of Vernon Special Olympics is its volunteers. Volunteering is an opportunity to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Volunteers make a meaningful contribution to the community.
“There is always the need for more hands in our organization and we hope to fill all vacant spots, especially for coaching and assisting in the sport programs,” said volunteer coordinator John Raikes. “You have to come out and see how those athletes inspire you and actually give back to you with their commitment, hard training and smiles all around.”
Registration night for the 16 winter and summer sports will take place Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Dorothy Alexander Centre. Dessert will be served and coaches 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 visit www.sobcvernon.ca, e-mail info@sobcvernon.ca or call 250-306-8954.
