Wyatt Oostendorp

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

I’ve been participating since 2018, when I was 11 years old.

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

I first started skiing on a field trip and then took a few lessons. My ski instructor said I was already to level 4 after a month, so my mom found Special Olympics and asked if I could join! It has allowed me more socialization and allows me to participate in a sport that I have enjoyed! I have now been named to Special Olympics Team Canada twice, even though the first Games were cancelled because of the pandemic. I love to compete and win medals and be a part of a team!

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

My biggest barrier to overcome was nervousness about being away from home. With help from my coaches and team and advice from my parents, I was able to develop the skills necessary to feel confident being on my own for competitions. I learned many skills, from self-advocacy and organization to self-management.

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My favourite memory is competing at my first Nationals at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Thunder Bay 2020, when I was just 13. I was the youngest athlete of the Games, and it was the first time being on my own for so long away from my parents. I won 3 gold medals and enjoyed being with my team.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

Special Olympics has taught me how to work as a part of a team or group.

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

It is a great honour to be selected for the National Team. It is a big moment to represent my country. My main goal is to actually get there this time, as the last World Games I qualified for were unfortunately cancelled during the pandemic! My other goal is to achieve victory through hard work. 

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

You never know what someone is capable of... just because someone has a disability doesn't mean that they can't succeed and achieve their goals.

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

Special Olympics is a great opportunity to do something that you enjoy with people who understand you!