Meet Athlete Nick Kellof
For nearly three decades, Special Olympics BC – North Shore athlete Nick Kellof has found belonging, confidence, and joy through Special Olympics BC.
Kellof joined Special Olympics in 1997 and has been an athlete for 27 years. Along the way, the program has helped him build confidence on and off the basketball court.
“It’s given me the courage to just be myself and not worry about what other people think. At Special Olympics, nobody really judges you for being yourself.”
That sense of belonging is something Kellof’s son Sam, who is also a Special Olympics BC athelte, notices and values, just like his dad.
“It means a lot to see people with disabilities get to compete and have a chance at success.”
Nick Kellof’s basketball coach, Zak Klein, has seen the program in North Vancouver grow significantly over the year.
“It’s beautiful to watch and see some of these individuals who, when they first started, didn’t have a lot of self confidence, didn’t fit in with the group, and all of a sudden after a couple years with Special Olympics, they’re getting jobs and are far more confident in their ability.”
For Kellof, that growth also means more than numbers. It represents opportunity.
“Special Olympics allows people to be themselves and participate in sports without feeling self-conscious,” said Kellof.
Those opportunities often extend beyond sport, opening doors to new friendships, confidence and life skills that carry into everyday life.