The Special Olympics- Alberta Summer Games’ newly appointed ambassadors for Grande Prairie delivered an update to City Council during their recent meeting, saying they are ready for an energetic showing this summer.
Games Manager Lisa Kerkhof previously worked in a similar role for the Grande Prairie-hosted Alberta Winter Games in 2024, and says while the summertime competition might see fewer competitors, the energy will be the same, if not higher.
“In comparison to the winter games, which was about 2,400 participants, we’re at about 1,000 athletes and coaches, and then 100 to 150 officials,” she says. “But the enthusiasm of this games is going to outmatch that of the winter games- our athletes are very excited, there’s a ton of sportsmanship for this event, a ton of cheering, so I think you can expect the same level of energy and comradery out there on the field.”
Three ambassadors joined Kerkhof during the presentation, covered with the spoils of victory to show off to council, and drum up excitement for the upcoming games.
Kaylee, Steven, and Savannah will not only be competing in the games this year- they also hold the responsibility of representing the city with passion and sportsmanship to fellow athletes, coaches, and visitors before and during the games. Grande Prairie Deputy Mayor Chris Thiessen says the trio have already stepped up in their new roles, after being appointed just a few weeks ago.
“The ambassador role is really taking fabulous members of our community, representing the Special Olympics, and giving them a position where they can be community members and role models to other youth, or people in the Special Olympics community as well,” he says. “They’re stepping forward as people saying- hey Grande Prairie, we’re inclusive, we’re accepting, and I have to say, our three ambassadors have really stepped up into their role.”
Kaylee and Savannah spoke on their mutual excitement for the games, inviting residents to keep an eye out for them at the pool and on the field, and saying the games represent more than just competition.
“I think it’s going to be fun, and active, and staying healthy, and meeting new athletes,” Kaylee says. “I think bocce is more fun- it’s like lawn bowling.”
“I’m also competing for Grande Prairie – I’m doing swimming at the Eastlink Centre,” Savannah adds.
Kerkhof maintains that the easiest way to get involved and support the athletes is to volunteer.
“We’ll need volunteers for the weekend of the games- July 11th to 13th, in a host of different roles so whether its sport help, food services, courtesy cart drivers, general help for the games, we’re looking for lots of people.”
Interested individuals can sign up to volunteer online.
