Sport builds fitness, friendships, confidence, and independence, and athletes with a disability deserve every one of those benefits. The right fit depends on the athlete: their sport, their goals, how they learn, and the support they need.
Three pathways
- Inclusive programs, where athletes with and without a disability train together, with adaptations where they're needed.
- Special Olympics, for athletes with an intellectual disability, with local clubs across Canada and competition from community events to world games.
- Para sport, for athletes with a physical, visual, or intellectual impairment. Athletes are classified so they compete against others with a similar level of impairment, from club level to the Paralympic Games.
Many athletes move between these pathways, or do more than one at the same time.
What good coaching looks like
- The coach gets to know the athlete first: what they love, how they learn, and what they find hard.
- Instructions are shown as well as told, and broken into small steps.
- Sessions have predictable routines, with breaks built in.
- Equipment, rules, and movements are adapted so the athlete can take part fully.
- Progress is measured against the athlete's own goals.
- Families and support workers are part of the plan.
What to share with a coach
- How your athlete communicates and learns best.
- What helps when they feel overwhelmed, and what doesn't.
- Medical information, medications, and any seizure or emergency plan.
- Mobility needs, equipment, and accessibility needs.
- Their goals, in sport and outside it.
Questions to ask a program
- Have your coaches trained in coaching athletes with a disability, such as NCCP Coaching Athletes with a Disability?
- Can a support person or support worker attend?
- Is the venue accessible, including washrooms, change rooms, and pool access?
- How do you adapt sessions, and are one-on-one or small group options available?
Canadian resources
Where to go next
Canadian organizations and experts who can help athletes and families go further.
Special Olympics Canada
Find a Special Olympics program near you, in sports from swimming and athletics to basketball and bowling.
Special Olympics BC
Local Special Olympics clubs and programs across British Columbia.
Canadian Paralympic Committee
Para sport in Canada, from getting started to the Paralympic Games.
Sources
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk to a health professional about your own situation.
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