Vancouver Whitecaps FC are proud to partner with Special Olympics BC, whose mission is to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities opportunities to enrich their lives and celebrate personal achievement through positive sport experiences. After thirty-four years, they are providing year-round, high-quality sports programs and competitions for more than 4,300 athletes in 55 communities around the province, with the vital assistance of more than 3,300 trained, dedicated volunteers.
From July 8 to 12, the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games are returning to British Columbia for the first time since 1990. Approximately 1,700 athletes, coaches, and mission staff from across the country will come together to compete in Vancouver, and the 359 members of Special Olympics BC’s biggest provincial team ever are ready to shine on this significant national stage. The SOBC athletes will be competing in 11 Games sports: 10-pin bowling, 5-pin bowling, aquatics, athletics, basketball, bocce, golf, powerlifting, rhythmic gymnastics, soccer, and softball. You can check out the action July 8 to 12 at the UBC Vancouver campus, the University Golf Club, and The Zone Bowling Centre in Richmond. All events are free to spectators, and fans are welcomed. The full Games schedule can be viewed at www.vancouver2014.com/competition/events-schedule/.
At the ‘Caps match this past weekend, members of the Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg in support of the Special Olympics Canada 2014 Summer Games were attendance. This team – composed of 25 law enforcement members from across Canada and two Special Olympics athletes from B.C. and Alberta – interacted with fans at ‘Caps Kickoff and on the concourse at BC Place. Camrose athlete, George Hagel from Special Olympics Alberta, Delta athlete Kim Davies from Special Olympics BC, and Staff Sergeant Joanne Wild from the Vancouver Police Department also led the player walkout onto the pitch, carrying the “Flame of Hope” for the 2014 Summer Games.
From July 5 to July 8, these dedicated law enforcement members and Special Olympics athletes have been and continue to weave their way throughout the Lower Mainland carrying the “Flame of Hope” on their way to the Opening Ceremonies for the Special Olympics Canada 2014 Summer Games on July 8 at the University of British Columbia. The “Flame of Hope” will light the cauldron, signaling the start of the 2014 Summer Games. Its glow signifies the special bond that exists between Special Olympics Athletes and Law Enforcement across our country. The Opening Ceremonies will also host honoured guests from Whitecaps FC, including captain Jay DeMerit, midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker, and club president, Bob Lenarduzzi.
It’s not too late to participate in the best sporting experience in Vancouver. Whitecaps FC offer a flexible range of ticket products, including prorated season tickets ($184), 5-packs ($149), student season tickets, and a youth soccer half-season ticket. Single-match tickets start at $22, subject to applicable fees. For more information on all Whitecaps FC ticket options, call 604.669.9283 ext. 2 or visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.
