Jordan Stevenson

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

8 years.

How did you first get involved with Special Olympics and how has it changed your life?

I talked with my friend Larry about it and decided to give it a try. I loved it and it gave me another way of competing and meeting new people.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

A challenge I’ve had to overcome is to become more social, rather than hiding in a corner. I am more confident now and even took public speaking courses through Special Olympics, which have helped me better express myself.

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My favourite memory was getting to meet my teammates on Special Olympics Team Canada, chatting and having fun together!

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

Special Olympics has taught me that being active helps me to be less stressed. Biking to and from places is one of my favourite forms of daily activity!

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

It’s a great opportunity to experience a new atmosphere and to be a role model for other athletes. My goal for Turin is to be able to step off the ice and feel like I’ve skated the best I can skate, whether win or lose.

What do you want people to know about athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

Don’t be afraid of what you aren’t familiar with. And to my fellow athletes – there’s no need to be the best at anything as long as you’re having fun and trying your hardest.

What would you say to someone thinking of getting involved in Special Olympics?