Kailyn Potomak

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

14 years.

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

I was playing for a baseball team and my coaches recommended that I try Special Olympics. I joined softball, basketball, soccer, and track & field! Special Olympics has helped play the sports that I never got the chance to play in school. Now I have earned many medals: a gold medal in basketball from the 2014 National Games, a silver medal in basketball from the 2018 National Games, 2 silver medals in alpine skiing from the 2020 National Games and 1 gold medal and 2 silver medals in alpine skiing from the 2024 National Games.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

Friendship and leadership skills as part of a team. Life skills, like the ability to travel without my family. I have become an inspiration to other female athletes, just as I learned this from traveling and staying with my previous teammates.

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My proudest moment was winning medals in alpine skiing and having my picture taken at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

Teamwork.

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

I am very happy to be among the best skiers in Canada and I am very proud to be representing all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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

Don't give up – climb that mountain, then climb the next mountain!

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

Go for it! Have fun and learn about yourself. You are not alone.