Special Olympics Team Canada Alpine Coach Ron Struch Selected to Recite Coach's Oath at the Special Olympics World Games in Turin

Last night, in a moment of extraordinary honour and recognition, Special Olympics Team Canada alpine skiing coach Ron Struch took center stage at the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin. In front of more than 1,500 athletes, over 1,000 coaches from 102 countries, and thousands of spectators, Struch recited the Special Olympics Coaches Oath on behalf of all nations—an unforgettable tribute to his leadership and the deep respect he holds within the global coaching community.

As he stepped forward to deliver the oath, a roar erupted from the stands—his athletes, beaming with pride, chanted his name in support. Their cheers filled the arena, a direct reflection of the impact Struch has had on their lives both on and off the slopes. Then, with the world watching, he spoke the words that unite Special Olympics coaches across the globe:

For Struch, the opportunity to stand before the world and affirm the commitment of Special Olympics coaches was a humbling and deeply meaningful experience. Coaching Special Olympics athletes has never been just about training and competition for him—it has been a lifelong passion, driven by the belief that sport has the power to transform lives.

“I love coaching Special Olympics athletes in alpine skiing because it’s a sport I’m passionate about and continue to stay active in,” Struch has shared. “My goal has always been to share that passion with my athletes, inspiring them through my enthusiasm and coaching. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching an athlete progress—seeing their pride and excitement as they realize how far they’ve come is the best feeling a coach could ask for.”

That dedication is exactly what has made Struch a leader in the Special Olympics movement. He has continuously pursued excellence, taking new coaching courses, staying up to date with best practices, and ensuring that his athletes receive the best possible support.

“Keeping informed about the latest research on athlete development, behaviors, and needs has been invaluable,” he has said. “I have completed many courses on coaching athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and each one has strengthened my approach. These athletes mean so much to me—I have learned just as much from them as they have from me, and together, we continue to grow.”

Beyond his work with Special Olympics Team Canada, Struch has played a key role in promoting inclusion within the alpine skiing community. He has helped create opportunities for Special Olympics athletes to train and compete alongside local alpine racing clubs, ensuring that more athletes experience the thrill of high-level competition.

“Recently, the Manitoba Alpine Ski Division and Special Olympics Manitoba participated in the first-ever multi-age race, an event that brought excitement to athletes, parents, and volunteers alike,” he has recalled. “I have also encouraged people from diverse backgrounds to volunteer with Special Olympics events, helping to build a more inclusive and welcoming community.”

Struch’s commitment to inclusion extends far beyond sport. He has taken courses on coaching Indigenous athletes, gaining valuable insights into their experiences and culture, and has applied those lessons to his everyday life. Whether advocating for accessibility in public spaces or fostering an inclusive environment in the workplace, he has always believed that true inclusion is a mindset—one that requires continuous learning, empathy, and action.

Last night, as he stood before the world to recite the Coach’s Oath, Struch embodied everything that makes a great Special Olympics coach. His passion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his athletes have not only earned him the respect of his peers but have also helped shape a more inclusive sporting landscape.

With his words echoing across the arena and his athletes cheering him on, Struch did more than recite a pledge—he reaffirmed the values of the Special Olympics movement and the unbreakable bond between coaches and athletes worldwide.