Courtney Roy

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

8 years.

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

I was introduced through my first job out of university as the Sport Coordinator with Special Olympics Edmonton. I wanted to combine the passion I have for sport, particularly amateur sport, with working with people. In this role, I was able to do both. Through my relationships built over years in my community, I have had the opportunity of a lifetime to be involved and serve our athletes, and it keeps me coming back!

How has Special Olympics impacted your life?

Special Olympics has impacted many aspects of my life, but strongest would be my sense of identity. I see Special Olympics as being a core tenant of not only my work life, but my impact as a person, my passion for my community, and my sense of belonging. I have had experiences and opportunities that go beyond what I thought possible within my work life, but the sense of community has been the biggest impact. Our athletes are truly the best folks out there, with the best outlooks.

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

I like being able to take care of things others find challenging! It is an exciting job and one that I feel uses my skillset and interests in a way that I can benefit my team. I love being able to interact with my core coach group particularly, and see how each person's strengths build up our fab team.

What is your proudest moment with Special Olympics?

When I got to announce that I would be part of this team was pretty awesome! Also, the last day of the first Provincial Games I planned, and the Opening Ceremony at Nationals. All of these moments are heavily emotionally charged for me and really make all the work worth it! I am very proud of the work I've done on a community level, and celebrate every opportunity we make happen for our folks here in Alberta.

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

Being a part of this team means wearing the maple leaf to me! That is the highest honour of sport, and although I'm not competing, I play a part in getting people across that finish line. My goal for Turin is to solve problems for my team, allowing all members to have the best possible experience.

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?

I have a strong admin background and can write an email with the best of them (most of the time). This comes in handy with my role! More than that, I am responsive and resourceful in a crisis, which keeps folks feeling like we've got it under control, and helps to moderate the emotions of the team. I know if there's something to do, I can get it done, and knowing that many of our athletes benefit from an advocate, I am driven to use my resourcefulness and advocacy voice to get them the best, protect them when they need it, and celebrate them when they crush their goals.

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

Be careful, as it may change your life, and you may never leave! Also, that if you want to see a tangible difference made in real time, every time, donate your time to coach and volunteer at programs. This makes a massive impact and you never know if an athlete is out there who needs the structure, spunk, or inspiration you can bring. You change lives just by being in them and being consistent, and that's a pretty good ROI.