Ava D.

Special Olympics Canada — Changing the Game 

Ava D.
Yukon/Stikine Heritage Fair
Whitehorse, YT

In 1962 Eunice Kennedy Shriver started a summer camp in her own backyard in Maryland for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Dr. Frank Hayden was a sports scientist researching the importance of staying active, healthy and socialized as a person with an intellectual disability. In 1968 Dr. Frank Hayden and Eunice Kennedy Shriver teamed up to create the first special Olympics that was held in Chicago with athletes from the USA and Canada. In 1969 the Special Olympics was held in Canada for the first time. It has grown from starting with only 1000 athletes in the first year, to now more than 5 million athletes taking part worldwide. There are over 40,000 participants in Canada all promoting inclusion. The Special Olympics goal is to provide a year round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics athlete oath is very powerful, “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me brave in the attempt." The Special Olympics Canada has deeply shaped Canadian culture by fostering a more inclusive, accepting and caring society and directly challenging misbeliefs about individuals with an intellectual disability. In the end everybody should feel that they fit in even if they are different. 

What sources and evidence did you consult for your project? What different perspectives did they provide on your topic?

I interviewed participants of a The Special Olympics. They told me how important The Special Olympics is to each of them. It gives them opportunities to do the things they love. I also interviewed a coach of a Special Olympics team from the Yukon. She said that her favourite part was the opportunity it provided to the athletes. It opens the doors to meeting new people and getting to experience the sport. I also found a lot of important information on the internet on the history of The Special Olympics and its founder, Dr. Frank Hayden.

What is the historical significance of your topic?

The Special Olympics impacted Canada's culture by bringing everyone together, promoting inclusion, and breaking down stereotypes. It has impacted families by bringing them closer together with their kids and growing through the athlete's sports and competitions. The Special Olympics also helps people with intellectual disabilities get around everyday difficulties like discrimination. It celebrates achievements, fosters inclusion, boosts self esteem and improves physical and mental health. 

Why did you choose this topic? 

I chose this topic because when I grow up I would like to be a Special Needs teacher working with kids of all ages with special needs. At school, I have 2 friends that have special needs. They are sisters. They are very active. The love to ski, bike and swim. They don’t get to take part in many organized sports. I think it is so important for all kids to have the opportunity to stay active and healthy.