David Wilkinson

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

22 years.

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

I started off helping out with my son's 5 pin bowling team. I got hooked because of the athletes and how positive and grateful and dedicated they are, as well as how they are so determined to do their best while displaying true sportsmanship.

How has Special Olympics impacted your life?

Special Olympics has transformed my life as it has opened my mind to anything being possible. It has allowed me to work with world class athletes and wonderful, knowledgeable coaches and be part of a movement or community that has a heart of gold. I also would not have had the experiences, travels or chance to represent my country.

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

All the people - athletes, coaches and mission staff. Seeing the growth and comradery develop between the athletes and the excitement of the athletes to train hard, learn new skills and represent their country is absolutely the best part.

What is your proudest moment with Special Olympics?

My proudest moment was seeing my son compete and win a gold and silver medal at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria in 2017. We never imagined that he would be able to represent Canada and compete against the rest of the world and bring home a gold and silver medal.

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

Being part of Team Canada is always special. My goal is to make sure the athletes on my snowshoe team are prepared so they can perform their best at Games, while ensuring they enjoy the entire journey from being named to the team through returning to Canada. This is the chance of a lifetime.

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 am driven to do my best to support and inspire the athletes every day as I know how much effort they have put into getting here, plus how hard they are working to be their best at Games. They deserve and require a lot of support and knowledgeable coaching so they can be their best. Seeing them grow and learn and succeed is my reward.

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

The Special Olympics community is so welcoming, and the athletes are so amazing. Anyone that gets involved will find that working with Special Olympics athletes is fun and fulfilling and you will find that you will get so much more out of these athletes than any effort you put in. Going to a practice will fill your heart and leave you with a smile, making any tough day better - and a good day great!