Shannon Haynes
Local / Community
Kelowna
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
All the stars aligned to get me involved with Special Olympics! I had just mentioned to a friend how I'd love to get involved in Special Olympics and was wondering if my local had rhythmic gymnastics. I grew up competing in rhythmic gymnastics, later coached cheerleading in both generic and divisions for individuals with intellectual disabiliites, and now work in the developmental disability field. It felt like it would be the perfect combination of my experiences and passions. A few days later, a colleague at work posted that the Special Olympics rhythmic gymnastics program was looking for volunteers. So I reached out and had a conversation with the coordinator to find out that they were in need of a head coach mid-season. I jumped in and haven't looked back since!
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 Special Olympics Canada Games, and I am so excited!
What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you?
To be a part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 is so exciting and such an honour to me! I grew up competing at the provincial and national level, and I know how important it is to the athletes, but also how grateful I am to my coaches that were alongside me. I am so honoured to get to be a part of these athletes' journeys in sport and play a role in achieving their goals and having an amazing experience.
What is/are your goal(s) for National Games?
My goal is to support our team and athletes to have their best games and come home feeling proud and accomplished, having had an amazing time and made memories.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
Competitions are so incredible - it's wonderful to watch athletes shine on the competition floor! But I also love the moments of accomplishment at practices too. Not all athletes compete, but there are huge accomplishments that happen each week at practices - from learning a new skill, to seeing young athletes building the confidence to participate independently - I love those little moments of shining too!
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (Or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
Competition is opportunity for our athletes. An opportunity to show off their had work and meet sport goals. It's also an opportunity to travel, to meet other athletes from around the province and country, to connect, and to make memories.
What developments are you excited to see in your Team BC sport team leading up to National Games?
I am so excited to see the athletes develop connection and camaraderie with each other. Our athletes are from across the province and I can't wait to see them develop friendships and support each other on this journey.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
Special Olympics will be a bright spot in your life. It will remind you that barriers are there, but it's always possible to surpass them; and that being yourself, trying your hardest, and having fun is truly the best way to accomplish your goals.