Taryn Atkinson

Local / Community 

Prince George

When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics? 

I began volunteering with Special Olympics in 2024. I wanted to volunteer for a community sports program, and I had a friend volunteering with Special Olympics and she told me all about it! 

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 Nationals.

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

I am so fortunate for the opportunity to be able to attend Nationals. It means a lot to me to be able to support the athletes and help them compete against other provinces/territories.  

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

To have fun, support the athletes, and win games! 

What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date? 

Being able to coach at provincials in front of a home crowd in Prince George. Zone 8 (Prince George/Quesnel) captured bronze! 

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

The athletes are so excited. For some, they have already been many times, and for others, it’s their first time. Regardless, everyone is training hard and super excited! 

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

Teamwork.

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

You can volunteer in a small role or large role and still make a huge impact for the athletes and your community. Coaching is very fulfilling, and the athletes never fail to make me smile and laugh.