Congratulating the 2026 Special Olympics BC Award nominees
We are thrilled to announce and congratulate the 2026 nominees for Special Olympics BC’s annual provincial awards!
These athletes, coaches, and volunteers have been recognized by their peers for their outstanding accomplishments, attitudes, dedication, and contributions to Special Olympics BC.
Join us in congratulating this year’s inspiring nominees! Learn more about their powerful stories by reading some of their nominators’ comments below.
Athletic Achievement Award
The Athletic Achievement Award is presented annually to a male or female athlete who has demonstrated outstanding athletic skill both in practice and competition. The 2026 nominees are:
Alex Rogers, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“A three-year member of Special Olympics BC, Alex competes in floorball, basketball, and soccer. He trains outside of scheduled team practices, focusing on skill development, and was named MVP at the March Madness tournament. He arrives early to practice, leads warm-ups, and works with fellow athletes in the development program. In basketball, he demonstrates ball handling, shooting consistency, decision-making, and confidence, contributing in all areas of the game.”
Anne Gibson, Special Olympics BC – Surrey
“A member of Special Olympics BC for more than 25 years, Anne competes in floorball, curling, and 10-pin bowling. She has been selected to the inaugural Special Olympics Team BC women’s soccer team for the upcoming 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games and competes with Surrey’s Level A floorball team. Anne mentors Level C female floorball athletes, while she participates in multiple sports programs to maintain regular fitness training, supporting her performance across disciplines. During competition, Anne encourages teammates, congratulates opposing athletes, and thanks coaches and officials.”
Cory Duhaime, Special Olympics BC – Delta
“A 24-year member of Special Olympics BC, Cory competes in alpine skiing, softball, and basketball. He has represented Special Olympics Team BC at the 2010 National Summer Games and the 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024 National Winter Games, and was selected to Team Canada in 2022 and 2025. He arrives early to practice, stays until the end, and follows his coaches’ direction.”
Lisa Perry, Special Olympics BC – Dawson Creek
“At Regional Playdowns in Quesnel, Lisa led the Dawson Creek Tornados to a second-place finish in Pool A as skip, guiding her team with strong communication and leadership. A Special Olympics athlete since the 1980s, Lisa has elevated her performance through improved sweeping technique and consistent dedication to curling. She is known for her sportsmanship, encouraging teammates and competitors, thanking officials, and volunteering at Learn to Curl events, while continuing to grow her confidence and leadership within the sport.”
Matt Caldwell, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“A member of Special Olympics BC since 2008, Matthew trains and competes in floorball and track and field, and has also previously participated in softball. He shows up to every practice fully committed to doing his best, encouraging his teammates and pushing himself to improve. Matthew has competed as part of Special Olympics Team BC three times at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in 2016, 2020, and 2024 with the Comox Valley floor hockey team. He participates in every practice, following his coaches’ direction and completing drills.”
Patrick Kusnir, Special Olympics BC – Creston
“A 10-year member of Special Olympics BC, Patrick competes in 5-pin bowling, floorball, curling, swimming, golf, and bocce. In floorball, he applies skills from floor hockey, demonstrates technique to teammates, and takes reps in goal during practices. He also assists coaches with equipment setup and supports teammates during training sessions.”
Samantha McLean, Special Olympics BC – Kimberley/Cranbrook
“A member of Special Olympics BC since 2017, Samantha competes in basketball, bocce, golf, cross country skiing, and bowling. She was part of a team that went undefeated to win a provincial title and is scheduled to compete at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games this summer in Medicine Hat after qualifying in bocce. Samantha serves as the athlete representative for her local district, where she organizes athlete involvement, communicates with athletes across the region, and encourages participation in events. In competition, she supports both teammates and opposing athletes.”
Yorke Parkin, Special Olympics BC – Revelstoke
“At the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games, Yorke represented Special Olympics Team Canada and achieved his goal of winning gold in all three alpine skiing events. He trains year-round and brings that same drive to swimming, earning personal bests and medals across his events. Yorke is known for supporting teammates, encouraging new athletes, and showing consistent respect for coaches, volunteers, and competitors.”
BC LETR Award
The BC Law Enforcement Torch Run award is presented annually to a Law Enforcement Torch Run member who has demonstrated significant dedication to the BC LETR and Special Olympics BC. The 2026 nominees are:
Constable Azad Vizheh, North Vancouver RCMP
“Constable Vizheh has been an active volunteer with Special Olympics BC since 2019, contributing ongoing time, energy, and support to Law Enforcement Torch Run initiatives for approximately seven years. He works to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the Special Olympics community, fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for athletes and their families.”
Sergeant Dale Quiring, Surrey Police Service
“Dale’s contributions to the LETR and Special Olympics BC are significant. Aside from his role as the Surrey Police Service representative with the BC LETR network for the past three years, Dale has served on the Local Committee of Special Olympics BC – Surrey where he provides invaluable insights as a police subject matter expert on diversity, inclusion and serving and connecting with vulnerable populations. Dale coaches and mentors numerous Special Olympics BC athletes weekly at Club Fit, an activity and team building session he leads with his Community First unit.”
Staff Sargent Grant Floris, Chilliwack RCMP
“S/Sgt Grant Floris has been actively involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics BC for many years. Throughout his involvement, Grant has demonstrated consistent leadership and commitment to LETR initiatives, particularly through his ongoing role in supporting the annual Torch Run in partnership with PRTC and organizing the annual Polar Plunge. His involvement has been sustained, visible, and impactful over multiple years.”
Constable Sam Zacharias, Port Moody Police Department
“Sam became involved in the LETR in 2017 with various events in Port Moody. In 2021, Sam became the media relations officer and in his role in the Community Services Section, he took over the Torch Run and organized PMPD's first ever Polar Plunge. Since 2021 the PMPD Polar Plunge has grown from 10 police participants to hundreds of attendees and fundraising contributors representing multiple police agencies, local business, students, community members and Special Olympics athletes from many jurisdictions.”
Coach Ambition Award
The Coach Ambition Award recognizes a coach who contributes to the overall organization, promotion, and development of sport in Special Olympics. The coach demonstrates potential to create a significant and positive impact through their Special Olympics coaching role in the future. The 2026 nominees are:
Amanda Silveri, Special Olympics BC – Coquitlam
“A 2.5-year coach with Special Olympics BC, Amanda is the head coach of powerlifting and an assistant coach in soccer, Club Fit, snowshoeing, and functional testing. In 2026, she launched a powerlifting program in Coquitlam, securing a facility, recruiting athletes and volunteers, and delivering weekly training plans while tracking athlete results. Amanda also contributes as a training coach with Special Olympics Team BC women’s soccer and has recruited volunteers who now support the athletes and their programs.”
Brett Rheulen, Special Olympics BC – Campbell River
“Brett is a 23-year-old Vancouver Island University student completing a Bachelor of Kinesiology who began coaching with Special Olympics BC as a Grade 9 student in Campbell River. Brett works with athletes of varying skill levels, structuring practices that are fun, positive, and productive, and applies his kinesiology studies to support athletes with diverse needs and challenges.”
Claire Sibbald, Special Olympics BC – Victoria
“Since joining Special Olympics BC, Claire has become a key coach across figure skating, softball, and swimming. She stepped in as acting head coach for figure skating, leading warmups, technical lessons, and practice plans, and also served on the Region 6 swimming coaching team at the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games in Prince George. Claire is known for stepping up without being asked, creating inclusive and structured practices, and helping athletes build confidence, independence, and stronger communication.”
Kendra Parent, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“A four-year coach with Special Olympics BC, Kendra supports track, soccer, basketball, and rhythmic gymnastics, where she has stepped in as head coach when needed. As an assistant coach in basketball, she leads warm-ups, runs structured drills, supports athletes during games and competitions, and reinforces athlete wellness. Kendra arrives early to practices, leads skill development, and works one-on-one with athletes to support participation.”
Nicole Zipursky, Special Olympics BC – Delta
“A two-year coach with Special Olympics BC, Nicole is an assistant coach with Delta Track & Field and served as head coach for the 2025 Special Olympics BC Games in Prince George. She leads practices in the Head Coach’s absence, while also coordinating athlete participation in parades and special events. She also serves as Promotions Coordinator for Special Olympics BC – Delta, leading fundraisers, organizing registration events, and supporting community outreach. During the 2024-2025 season, she supported athletes in qualifying for the Special Olympics BC Summer Games.”
Grassroots Coach Award
The Grassroots Coach Award is presented to a coach who works tirelessly to ensure that all athletes, regardless of their ability level, are provided with opportunities to train, improve, and compete. The 2026 nominees are:
Diane Stevenson, Special Olympics BC – Ridge Meadows
“A member of Special Olympics BC since 2018, Diane serves as Head Coach of bocce and golf, while also supporting soccer and basketball programs. She leads sessions with warm-ups and stretching, promotes functional testing, and reinforces healthy habits. Diane takes time to understand each athlete’s learning style, adapting her approach to meet individual needs while providing clear direction and consistent encouragement.”
Les Andrykew, Special Olympics BC – Kamloops
“For nine years, Les has led basketball and soccer in Kamloops, while also serving as assistant coach for the Kelowna/Prince George Special Olympics Team BC basketball team heading to the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. He manages many parts of both programs while creating a fun, supportive environment where all athletes are included and challenged.”
Jacky Sheng, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“A coach with more than 20 years in Special Olympics BC, Jacky supports track and field, soccer, Club Fit, and swimming, and previously served as head coach of 5-pin bowling. Jacky also contributes in leadership roles as Fundraiser, Program Coordinator, and Athlete Development Coordinator, supporting the athlete council. She organizes additional training sessions for athletes preparing for Special Olympics BC Games and Special Olympics Canada Games, including individual sessions, and currently supports a swimmer training three mornings a week.”
Mike Riddalls, Special Olympics BC – Port Alberni
“For 10 years, Mike has supported athletes of all ability levels in Club Fit, track and field, and curling, serving as Head Coach of track and field since 2018 and Club Fit since 2021. He adapts drills so every athlete can participate and celebrates individual progress to build confidence. Mike’s commitment goes beyond practice. He drove to Ucluelet twice a month to train a Special Olympics Team BC athlete and also provided weekly training for a Special Olympics Team Canada athlete.”
Sandra Gallaway, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“A 30-year member of Special Olympics BC and head coach of the Comox Valley curling program for the past 20 years, Sandra creates a structured and welcoming environment where athletes train, compete, and take part in team events throughout the season. She leads practices, teaches curling skills and adapts drills and equipment to support athletes with different needs, often spending additional time one-on-one to ensure every athlete is engaged. Sandra builds strong connections with her athletes, offering guidance, encouragement, and hands-on support both on and off the ice.”
Sarb Basra, Special Olympics BC – Surrey
“A 16-year coach with Special Olympics BC, Sarb serves as Head Coach of bocce and supports rhythmic gymnastics, floorball, and 5-pin bowling. She stepped in to lead bocce in 2023, growing the program to more than 32 athletes across eight teams. Sarb organizes practices, coordinates volunteers, supports athlete development, and introduces skills-based participation at floorball qualifiers to ensure athletes at all levels can take part.”
Howard Carter Award
The Howard Carter Award recognizes a coach who provides exceptional training to athletes, preparing them to beat personal bests and deliver high-calibre performances. This award is named after an upstanding member of the automobile business community and a great friend of Special Olympics BC, Howard Carter. Meet the 2026 nominees:
Christine Helpard, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“Christine works tirelessly and is willing to give the extra time it takes to ensure athletes are fully prepared to compete to the best of their ability. She is dedicated to sport, and with her exceptional sport experience, she has the knowledge and skills to coach the athletes in progressive skill development and training in order to succeed in competition.”
Saige Beaumont, Special Olympics BC – Revelstoke
“Saige not only coaches the athletes, she listen to them and helps guide them to make better decisions and choices in their personal lives. Saige is a true leader in alpine ski coaching. She has worked with our local ski racing club for the past 11 years and is now a head coach overseeing all of the younger coaches that are just starting out. At the 2025 Special Olympics Winter World Games, Saige was there every step of the way to assist her athletes in achieving their goals.”
President's Award
The President's Award is presented to a non-coaching volunteer who is dedicated to planning, organizing and operating sport programs, fundraisers, or competitions. The 2026 nominees are:
Heiko Behn, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“Heiko has been the bedrock of Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo for over 20 years. His primary impact lies in sustainability and stability – by managing the financial health of the organization, he has ensured the program’s longevity. His work allows the local branch to operate smoothly behind the scenes, creating a reliable environment where the program can grow without the threat of financial instability.”
Lee Chic, Special Olympics BC – South Okanagan
“Lee has been the main person in our Local. If not for her and her enthusiasm for Special Olympics and the local athletes, our Local would not be running. Lee is always available to encourage athletes with their sport, and communicates with coaches and volunteer regularly. Lee has attended numerous events promoting our local athletes. She ensures they have a club fit program when they are training and follow appropriate health guidelines.”
Margaret Peters, Special Olympics BC – Powell River
“Margaret has simultaneously held the position of Program Coordinator, Registration Coordinator and Volunteer Coordinator for many years. Even with the high demands, Margaret has sought out new sports – most recently adding softball – to the sports offered. Margaret listens and treats everyone with the same respect and dignity, whether you have been with SOBC for a month or 10 years, an athlete or a coach or board member.”
Marilyn Farquhar, Special Olympics BC – Langley
“Marilyn started volunteering as our swimming Head Coach in 1988. Marilyn was one of the founding members of the Langley Local. She has served on our local committee for 38 years as our Program Coordinator and has recently taken on the committee position of Member at Large. At 81 years young she still faithfully attends our committee meetings and helps in any way possible. She is the first one to congratulate athletes on their personal best achievements. Every Local would be blessed to have a lifelong volunteer such as Marilyn.”
Spirit of Sport
The Spirit of Sport Award is presented annually to a Special Olympics BC athlete who exemplifies the true meaning of sportsmanship. The 2026 nominees are:
Becki Allen, Special Olympics BC – Delta
“Becki is the first person to congratulate other athletes on their performances. She will ‘high five’ other gymnasts from our program and also from other communities. She’s always encouraging other athletes to do their personal best. Becki is hardworking and determined. She can achieve any goal she sets her mind to. An example of this is that she practices every day on her own.”
Ben Helpard, Special Olympics BC – Comox Valley
“Ben is well liked and is a respected member of the Comox Valley. He remembers things about his friends and family and is always curious about how they are doing and goes out of his way to interact with people. Ben is always helpful and encouraging with his fellow athletes. He has a good rapport and loves to joke around with his teammates and friends. Ben competes in as many sports as he can and always gives 100% of himself in practices and competitions.”
Chris Lakusta, Special Olympics BC – Langley
“Chris is known for his quick humor and attention-grabbing laughter. His teammates state he is ‘outgoing’ and has a ‘contagious smile.’ During a game, if there is an injury, you will see Chris to be the first to get on one knee until the injured athlete is safely removed. Chris understands and can share the beginnings of Special Olympics; he competes by the Athlete’s Oath.”
Danielle Tessie, Special Olympics BC – Port Alberni
“Danielle is very friendly with all her fellow athletes, coaches, volunteers, and the community in general. She is a great communicator. She juggles her job, sports, and her family, and is always making sure that they all know when there is a conflict with her many schedules. Danielle acts as a mentor to new athletes in softball and soccer.”
Dara Watson, Special Olympics BC – Dawson Creek
“Dara has participated in every sport offered in Dawson Creek. Dara is always ready to participate, and to change. Most recently, Dara assisted the curling club’s ice maker at a bonspiel. Dara works hard on her skill development. She follows and implements suggestions of guest coaches.”
David Stevenson, Special Olympics BC – Ridge Meadows
“David consistently demonstrates strong teamwork and leadership as a Special Olympics athlete. He actively supports and encourages his team, always cheering them on and celebrating. He’s always very welcoming, smiling, showing strong sportsmanship, encouraging his teammates, and maintaining a positive attitude.”
Dennis McLeod, Special Olympics BC – Nanaimo
“Dennis has become much more engaged and motivated and that has passed on to his fellow athletes. He is going to Medicine Hat for the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games and is working so hard to get in shape for this. His smile and interaction with coaches and athletes is so noticeable and we are so proud of him!”
Jonathan Robins, Special Olympics BC – Creston
“A natural leader, Jonathan is often the first to arrive and the last to leave. He helps set up equipment, mentors younger or newer athletes, and models respect toward officials, coaches, and opponents alike. His energy is infectious, his encouragement sincere, and his belief in the value of teamwork unwavering.”
Melissa Andrews, Special Olympics BC – Surrey
“At a basketball tournament, while Melissa’s team was comfortably ahead, she noticed an athlete on the opposing team who had never scored a basket. Rather than continuing competitive play, Melissa returned the ball to that athlete multiple times until they successfully made their first basket. The celebration that followed – shared by both teams – became a defining moment of joy and unity.”
Sandra Malku, Special Olympics BC – Richmond
“She constantly goes above and beyond without ever needing to be asked. She naturally looks out for others, offering help wherever it’s needed and making sure everyone feels included and supported. Whether it’s cheering enthusiastically for fellow athletes or taking the time to comfort someone after a tough loss, Sandra shows genuine kindness and empathy.”
Shinji Matthews, Special Olympics BC – Kamloops
“Shinji is a dedicated athlete who always shows up and gives his all. He operates as the heartbeat of the team – he keeps everyone positive, and keeps the mood light. He’s always smiling, and always having a good time, and that energy and mood is infectious to everyone around him. He is always kind and respectful to other team members and ensures that everyone gets a chance to play.”
Congratulations to all of our deserving nominees!
Thank you for your positive impact on your communities and Special Olympics as a whole.
Sincere thanks also to the dedicated volunteers who took the time to craft and submit nominations, and to the volunteers and athletes serving on the award selection committee to select the winners.
Watch for the winners of the 2026 Special Olympics BC Awards to be announced in spring and summer!