Benton McNicol

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

I have been involved with Special Olympics for 10 years.

How did you first introduced to the movement and what got you hooked?

I was first introduced to Special Olympics back in 2014 when my personal speed skating coach was leaving London for work. She asked if I wanted to take over the program and there was absolutely no hesitation. 100% yes. To this day I still get the same excitement coming to the rink and seeing all the smiling faces of our athletes!

How has Special Olympics impacted your life?

Being involved with Special Olympics has been such a positive impact on my life. I have developed many friendships with other coaches and athletes from across the country!

What is your favourite part about your role on the team?

My favourite part about being a coach on Special Olympics Team Canada is seeing how hard and determined the athletes are firsthand. They make me want to be a better coach and a better person!

What is your proudest moment with Special Olympics?

I never want to take any credit for the athletes, but I have to say my proudest moment was at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Calgary when one of the Ontario skaters – a skater from my home club – came up to me and was so thankful about his performance at the Games. He was one of the oldest skaters competing in Calgary, and while his performance did not qualify him for World Games, he said he had never skated faster in his life and he told me a lot of his success was because I was the one that coached and pushed him leading up to the Games.

What does being a part of Special Olympics Team Canada mean to you and what is your goal for Turin?

It means so much to me to be a part of Special Olympics Team Canada. Who doesn't want to represent your country? My goal for Turin is to ensure all team member have a very positive experience. This is such a unique experience and I want to make sure they remember this for the rest of their lives. GO TEAM CANADA!!!!

What unique skills or experiences do you bring to your role as a coach, mission staff or team leadership and what drives you to support and inspire the athletes every day?

A unique skill that I believe I bring to the team is that I am the same age as many of the skaters, and I believe some athletes find comfort in that. Another unique skill is that I myself competed at a National level of speed skating, so I bring some firsthand experience to the table. I believe my most unique skill is that I try and make everything fun. Even when it is a hard practice or workout, I do everything I can to make it enjoyable and fun.

What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering with Special Olympics?

DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! It will be one of the best decisions you will ever make!