Carolyn McLean
Local Community
Cranbrook/Kimberley
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I got involved in 2018 through my friend Ivy-Lynne, who is a Special Olympics bowling coach. She told me about what a great organization it is, highlighting the inclusive and supportive environment for athletes. She mentioned how my daughters could benefit from it and suggested that I would really enjoy being a volunteer. After learning more, I knew it was something I wanted to be part of, a community where everyone is valued and can grow.
Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, what other National Games did you compete in, and in what sports?
Yes it's my first Special Olympics Canada Games.
What were your results in the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games? How did you feel about your performance?
The bocce team that I coach went undefeated and finished with a Gold medal. They made me proud with their performances on and off the court.
What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you?
Being a part of Special Olympics Team BC as a coach means more to me than wins, medals, or results on a scoreboard. It’s celebrating the small wins, an athlete trying something new, gaining independence, learning to manage nerves, and believing in themselves. It's a community, being a part of something bigger than my own team, a province-wide family of coaches, volunteers, families, and athletes who all share the same values, inclusion, dignity, and opportunity. I’m proud to represent British Columbia and to help create spaces where athletes feel seen, valued, and capable.
What is your goal for these National Games?
My goal for Nationals is to prepare my athletes to compete with confidence, consistency, and pride. I want them to perform to the best of their ability, trust their training, and feel proud of how they show up, win or lose. I will also use it as a growth experience. Fostering a positive, respectful team culture where athletes support one another, represent Team BC with pride, and model sportsmanship in every moment.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
My favourite Special Olympics experience to date wasn’t about medals. It was watching an athlete who struggled with confidence step up, trust their training, and compete with pride. Seeing the shift from “I can’t” to “I can” reminded me why I coach. That moment of belief was bigger than any result.
What do you like most about the sport you will compete in at National Games?
What I like most about bocce is how inclusive it is. Athletes of different abilities can compete side by side and experience success. Everyone can meaningfully participate, and that creates confidence and belonging right away. I love seeing the team energy and support everyone gives each other
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
Getting involved with Special Olympics is more than just playing a sport, it’s joining a community that values everyone’s abilities, growth, and confidence. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or volunteer, you get to be part of something bigger, helping people discover what they’re capable of, cheering each other on, and celebrating achievements that go far beyond medals. It’s an opportunity to make a real difference, learn about resilience, teamwork, and inclusion, and be part of a supportive, welcoming environment. Everyone belongs, and the moments of joy, pride, and connection you’ll experience are unforgettable.
Please tell us a little bit more about yourself! What else would you like people to know about you?
I’m someone who genuinely loves working with people and helping them discover their strengths. Coaching has taught me patience, creativity, and the importance of celebrating small victories, not just big wins. I care deeply about creating safe and supportive environments where everyone feels valued and capable. Outside of coaching, I’m passionate about learning and being part of my community. I'm currently in university to become a teacher. People should know that I’m committed, reliable, and always willing to adapt to help others succeed. I genuinely enjoy seeing growth, whether it’s skill development, confidence, or teamwork and I’m always excited to be part of someone else’s journey.