Derek Powley

Local / Community 

Kelowna

When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics? 

16 years ago in Prince George, my son wanted to play basketball. We found the SOBC booth for signing up in the local mall. We signed him up and myself for coaching, and here we are!

Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, what other National Games were you part of and in what role(s)? 

This will be my first National Games. 

What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you? 

Being part of this team has been an ongoing experience and is building. It is one large family the keeps growing. The support that everyone gives shows how much everyone cares. To sum it up, “we are FAMILY”!

What is/are your goal(s) for National Games? 

The ultimate goal is definitely to take home the Gold with the team. That being said, I want this team to be competitive. I want the athletes to feel that they are capable of winning and playing at this level, and that they deserve to be here.  

What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date? 

I have attended the North Shore March Madness in North Vancouver five times. Each time has been an unforgettable experience! Each year has been my favourite, as they all have a different meaning to them. This past March has definitely topped the chart!

What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (Or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general) 

Competing at these Nationals means so much this team. We have overcome so much adversity with injuries and new team mates. We had missed the last Nationals because of COVID. All the hard work and dedication from them has now come together. They deserve to be here and have earned their spot. 

What developments are you excited to see in your Team BC sport team leading up to National Games? 

Watching the teamwork develop and seeing how strong it is getting! It’s why we are here!

What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?

It’s making friendships you never knew you needed. As any friendship does, they take time to grow, but you’ll never forget them.