Rebecca Chen
Local / Community
Richmond
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I started volunteering with Special Olympics in September 2024. I was a coach on my high school track and field team and always tried to get the individuals in the special education department involved with the sport, but I was inexperienced in working with athletes with different abilities. I decided to get involved with Special Olympics to build my skills as a coach and to support the talented, yet underrepresented, group of athletes.
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 Special Olympics Canada Games.
What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you?
Being selected as a member of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 has been such an amazing opportunity to collaborate with volunteers and athletes from all around BC. As a new volunteer at Special Olympics, being surrounded by so many experienced and passionate volunteers has been inspiring. The opportunity has motivated me to continue my coaching education and growing my skills to become a better coach.
What is/are your goal(s) for National Games?
Leading up to National Games, I aim to ensure all athletes feel supported during training. I hope all members of the team will grow their love for sport and the Special Olympics community. For National Games, I hope all athletes enjoy the experience of competing at a national level and making new friends from across Canada. I am excited to watch our athletes shine, on and off the track.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
One of my favourite experiences at Special Olympics was during Provincial Summer Games 2025. I had the opportunity to meet a family as they watched their athlete compete. They were so supportive and proud knowing how much the athlete had overcome to attend the Provincial Games. This moment made me realize how much the opportunities provided by Special Olympics positively impact not just the athletes, but also their incredible supporters.
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 has provided my athletes with even more drive to improve their athletic skills and overall health.
What developments are you excited to see in your Team BC sport team leading up to National Games?
Leading up to the National Games, I am excited to watch the development of our team spirit. The athletes always root for each other, which provides motivation for everyone on the team.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
In just one year, Special Olympics has given me so much as a volunteer - inspiration, motivation, and a community filled with the most kind and welcoming individuals. The talented athletes and amazing supporters are why I look forward to volunteering at Special Olympics every week. I would encourage anyone looking for a meaningful volunteering opportunity to join Special Olympics.