Ryan Sorley

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?

My father took me skiing when I was 7, and then got me involved with Special Olympics.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

My biggest challenge was gaining confidence.

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My favourite memory is getting medals at the National Games in Calgary last year. The whole experience of those Games was really memorable.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

Keep trying

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

I am very proud that I am on Special Olympics Team Canada. It makes me feel special and I like the way people are also proud of me and what I am doing. I just want to do my best. It would be nice to get a medal, but I know if I do my best everyone will be proud of me and I will feel proud too.

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

I want people to know that we are just like any other athletes. I help coach athletes without disabilities at my old high school and at the McMaster Sports Fitness Camp. I like to show athletes of any ability that I can teach them something too.

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

It's fun, get involved!