Sport has always been a great unifier and offers an opportunity to bring people together in participation and fun. But it's not just participants who benefit.
Volunteers play a vital role in fostering personal growth and leadership in athletes, helping to transform lives in profound ways—including their own.
It's something Leah Ollett, 27, from Cowichan Valley, has experienced since she was 16, by getting involved and giving back, volunteering with Special Olympics BC (SOBC) and now being a head coach with their Club Fit program.
Connecting with athletes in fitness and fun
Ollett has always gravitated towards helping others; she's been a candy striper and assisted seniors in a retirement community and today, she works with adults at Duncan's Warmland House Shelter.
"I grew up playing many sports, baseball mainly, and I've always wanted to volunteer and help others in my community," says Ollett. "I was looking for a fun and uplifting experience and so I got involved with Special Olympics because of my dad, who founded Club Fit."
She puts her athletes (on average nine per class/once a week) through a full-body workout, and rotates through a few programs. "What I work on in Club Fit helps these athletes with their other sports, too," she says.
Club Fit runs from October to the end of June and is among a roster of sport programs with SOBC – Cowichan Valley in Duncan, including 5-pin/10-pin bowling, floor hockey, swimming, bocce, soccer, softball and track & field.
"We have the same athletes coming back every year, which is awesome," reveals Ollett. "A few of our athletes have moved to Nanaimo or Victoria to access more resources, but the great part about that is Special Olympics is all over B.C."
Inspiring and rewarding experiences
Ollett and other SOBC coaches teach sportsmanship, teamwork, self-discipline and confidence. Whether on a playing field, indoor court, pool, track or elsewhere, athletes are encouraged to carry these lessons with them everywhere—and into their everyday lives.
"I've gained a lot of knowledge about diversity in disability in the community, how many different families we have and how close everyone is," reveals Ollett. "I'm motivated to return every year because of the positive impact I'm able to make."
She adds, "I've known these athletes for about 10 years and I've watched them grow as individuals, watched them develop their skills, like their flexibility, and develop further in their other sports, which is one of my favourite things; it's very fulfilling."
Two recent highlights stand out to Ollett: first, when one of her athletes and family friends won the gold medal at 5-pin bowling at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024. "It was really exciting!" says Ollett. Second, on a more personal note, she was gifted a ceramic bowl and card from one of her athletes, which read: "Thanks to you, coach, we're all winners. Thank you for coaching a lively class."
It's a win-win for everyone involved; regardless of the results of a time clock or scoreboard, it's all about the athlete's joy of competition, achieving their personal best while realizing their potential and abilities.
At the local level, athletes with intellectual disabilities have the chance to reach their full potential in sports, build lasting bonds and feel a true sense of belonging. Currently, 55 communities across the province offer year-round sport, youth and health programs, helping over 3,200 athletes celebrate personal achievement with the support of more than 1,800 dedicated volunteers. By contributing time and energy, volunteers help foster a spirit of acceptance and inclusivity across B.C.
Reflecting on her experience, Ollett highlights the deep connections and meaningful impact that being part of the Special Olympics BC community has had on her, "The most rewarding aspect is the friendships I've built."
For more information and volunteer opportunities, visit specialolympics.ca.
