Angela Behn
Local / Community
Nanaimo
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I have been involved with SOBC for 38 years. Back in the olden days when I was in high school, there was an article in the newspaper about Special Olympics starting in Nanaimo. A friend and I decided to check it out and I've never left.
Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, what other National Games were you part of and in what role(s)?
My first National Games was in 1990 in Vancouver as a soccer coach. The following cycle, I switched over to track. Since then I've only missed two National Summer Games.
What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you?
I still am constantly learning from the incredible coaches, mission staff, and athletes. As my own knowledge increases, I continue to be mentored, but also have started mentoring others. I like seeing each personal success, sure, but even more, I love watching our team being recognized for their good sportsmanship, willingness to help, and the gratitude they show to all they come in contact with.
What is/are your goal(s) for National Games?
Networking with other teams, showing why SOBC is known for excellence both on and off the field of play, and showing the higher ups why I would be a great choice to coach with Team Canada.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
I loved listening by phone to Arianna Phillips winning the high jump event at the World Games in Abu Dhabi in 2019. I also look back fondly at an athlete with great mobility challenges, who worked so hard to be able to walk up and down a set of stairs correctly. I still remember my "Olympic moment," walking into BC Place for opening ceremonies in 1990. As an athlete will little actual sport talent, it was electrifying.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (Or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
I try remind my athletes to enjoy the moment. They are athletes who have earned their moment, and it is their time to make the most of it.
What developments are you excited to see in your Team BC sport team leading up to National Games?
I love seeing the social dynamics, watching the team come together, cheering each other (and other teams) on, and seeing that moment when they believe they can do their very best.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
Special Olympics is the best of the sporting world. Everyone celebrates successes, whatever that might be, but while the disappointments exist, they don't linger. There is very little drama and you will discover our athletes are just like any other athlete, just with extra awesomeness added.