Penny-Jane Peters
Local / Community
Victoria
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
When I first moved to Victoria (about 15 years ago), I didn't know anyone. I decided to join Special Olympics as a coach to get to know new people and make friends.
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 is my first time coaching for the Special Olympic Canada Games.
What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you?
Being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 means giving back to my community and advocating for those who don't always have a voice.
What is/are your goal(s) for National Games?
My goal for the National Games is to learn to be a better coach and overall human being.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
My favourite overall experience with Special Olympics was after our awards ceremony. The athletes on my team didn't get any medals, but still wanted to celebrate each other and their hard work, so we had our own ceremony during dinner.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (Or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
Competing at the National Games means proving to our country how brave and strong Special Olympics athletes are!
What developments are you excited to see in your Team BC sport team leading up to National Games?
I'm excited to see Team BC push themselves and show everyone that having developmental disabilities doesn't mean you can't compete and be an amazing athlete!
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
To encourage others to join Special Olympics, I would tell them that spending your time with athletes will always fill your bucket and remind you of what's most important in life. You won't be disappointed!