Samantha Damiani

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

I have been involved with Special Olympics for 25 years!

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

I was first introduced to the organization through my brother, who is an athlete. If he got to stay out late for sports practice I only thought it was fair that I got to too so I asked if volunteers were needed. As the years have passed it is more than just wanting to stay out late. After all these years what has me hooked is seeing how the organization promotes independence both on and off the field. The way it empowers athletes to grow not just in their sports but also in their personal lives is incredible. Watching my brother thrive and gain confidence through this experience made me realize the profound impact of sport and community, and I will continue to be part of it.

How has being involved with Special Olympics impacted your life?

Special Olympics has allowed me to build lasting relationships with athletes, coaches, and volunteers, while helping me grow as a leader and a person. I've learned patience, empathy, and the importance of inclusivity, and being part of the athletes’ journeys has been an incredibly rewarding and humbling experience. It has truly shaped my perspective on the power of sport to bring people together and make a difference.

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

Being Mission Staff is supporting the athletes and coaches throughout their journey. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the athletes’ growth, determination, and joy as they compete and achieve their goals. I love being behind the scenes, ensuring everything runs smoothly, and providing the support needed for the team to focus on their performance. Being part of such an inclusive and positive environment, where everyone is working towards a common goal, makes the role truly special.

What is your proudest moment with Special Olympics?

My proudest moment with Special Olympics came in 2012 when I received a phone call that the floor hockey team I was coaching was going to the World Games in South Korea. As a small-town team, we never imagined we’d have the chance to represent our country on such a big stage. I’ll never forget the excitement and disbelief in each athlete's voice when I called to tell them they were on Team Canada. Seeing their joy and pride in that moment was incredibly fulfilling, and it truly highlighted the power of sport to bring dreams to life. It was a testament to their hard work and dedication, and I felt honored to be a part of their journey.

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

Being a part of Special Olympics Team Canada is an incredible honor. It means representing not only Canada, but also the spirit of inclusivity, determination, and sportsmanship that Special Olympics stands for. My goal for Turin is to ensure our athletes and coaches have the best possible experience. I want to support them in building lasting friendships, and creating memories that will stay with them for 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?

In my role as mission staff, I bring a unique blend of coaching experience and a deep understanding of the transformative power of sports. Having coached a floor hockey team that went to the World Games, I’ve seen firsthand how sports can foster confidence and independence in athletes. This experience allows me to connect with the athletes on a personal level, understanding their challenges and celebrating their successes.

What drives me to support and inspire the athletes every day is the incredible confidence that sports instills in them. Watching athletes grow, push their limits, and embrace their abilities fuels my passion. I believe that every athlete has the potential to achieve greatness, both on and off the field, and I’m dedicated to helping them realize that potential every step of the way. Their determination and joy in competing inspire me to be the best support I can be for them

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

Special Olympics that it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only do you get to be part of a supportive and inclusive community, but you also have the chance to make a real difference in the lives of the athletes. You'll build meaningful connections, learn valuable life skills, and be inspired by the passion, determination, and joy that each athlete brings. It's a fulfilling way to give back while gaining so much in return.