Honorary Coach Cheryl Bernard: A Champion for Special Olympics Team Canada

March 09, 2025

As Special Olympics Team Canada competes on the world stage in Turin, Italy, they do so with an influential figure in their corner—Olympic curler Cheryl Bernard. Serving as Honorary Coach, Bernard has seamlessly stepped into her role as a mentor, advocate, and source of inspiration for the team.

Bernard’s connection to the team predates Turin. She first witnessed these athletes compete at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024, an event she co-chaired. There, she witnessed firsthand the determination, skill, and spirit that define Special Olympics athletes. Now, just over a year later, she stands alongside many of those same competitors, guiding them as they represent Canada on the global stage—a full-circle moment underscoring her deep commitment to the movement.

At the Special Olympics Team Canada Reception in Turin, Bernard reunited with the athletes, coaches, and mission staff, delivering an impassioned speech that set the tone for the Games. Her message was clear: wearing the maple leaf is both an honour and a responsibility. She urged the athletes to trust their training, embrace every moment, and take pride in representing their families, communities, and an entire nation rallying behind them. No matter the outcome, she reminded them, they are already champions.

Bernard’s impact extended beyond words. In a moment of national pride, she was selected as one of eight flag bearers from delegations around the world to carry the Special Olympics flag into the Opening Ceremony. Marching alongside global representatives, she helped raise the flag beside the Italian hosts—a symbolic gesture of unity, inclusion, and the unifying power of sport.

From her leadership at the national level to her presence at the Opening Ceremony, Bernard’s passionate support for Special Olympics Team Canada is undeniable. Her belief in the athletes, coupled with her experience as an Olympian, makes her an invaluable asset to the team. As competition unfolds in Turin, one thing is certain: with Bernard in their corner, Team Canada is poised to leave lasting mark on the world stage.

Cheryl Bernard’s Speech at the Special Olympics Team Canada Reception:

Hello, Special Olympics Team Canada! As an Olympian, I know the pride, the responsibility, and the overwhelming emotion of wearing the maple leaf on the world stage. It’s more than just a symbol—it’s a reminder of the journey that brought you here, the sacrifices you’ve made, and the people who have stood beside you every step of the way. And now, as your Honorary Coach, I couldn’t be prouder to stand with you. You’ve put in the training. You’ve poured in the effort. You’ve shown the heart and dedication it takes to be here. Now, it’s time to trust yourselves, believe in your preparation, and embrace every moment. You aren’t just representing yourselves—you carry the pride of your families, your communities, and an entire country that stands behind you. No matter the outcome, you are already champions. To the athletes: Thank you for inspiring us with your courage, heart, and determination. You’re true champions, both in sport and in life. To the chefs, coaches, trainers, and support staff: Thank you for everything you do behind the scenes to make this journey possible. You are the backbone of this team. As one Team Canada to another, I want to share some words of wisdom from fellow Canadian athletes: Stay present. These moments will stay with you forever—take them in, enjoy every second. Lean on your teammates. The friendships you make here will last a lifetime. Be proud. You are part of something bigger than sport—you are part of a movement that is changing the world. Together, we ARE Team Canada. Now let’s show the world what we’re made of.

Cheryl Bernard, Honorary Coach for Special Olympics Team Canada 2025