Dana Walter
Local / Community
Port Alberni
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I have been involved with Special Olympics as a coach for three years. I originally got involved to support my youth, and then was hooked into coaching. The rest is history and I am so glad that I signed up to volunteer coach.
Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, what other National Games were you part of and in what role(s)?
Yes, this will be my first Canada Games.
What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you?
I am honoured to volunteer to support the personal and team growth of Special Olympics athletes and coaches. I look forward to being part of a team, supporting individuals to achieve personal best times, and making connections with other athletes and coaches across the country. It will be an adventure!
What is/are your goal(s) for National Games?
My personal goals for National Games is to enjoy the games and support the athletes to be the best that they can be. This is a new adventure for me, so it is hard to set specific goals.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
I observed an experienced Special Olympics athlete take a beginner Special Olympics athlete under their wing to support them through their first Special Olympics swim meet. It was a pretty special experience.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (Or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
This is my first National Games! I know the athletes I coached at Provincials are so excited to complete at Nationals. They are looking forward to the plane ride, sleeping in a hotel and meeting people from other parts of Canada. So much excitement, so many questions! Oh and of course, they want to win their races.
What developments are you excited to see in your Team BC sport team leading up to National Games?
I am learning as I go. I look forward to working with like minded people and straightening connections between members of Team BC.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
Seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter of pure joy from athletes is such a blessing. The athletes appreciate the time you spend with them and they want to do their best!
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