Local teen heads to Special Olympics Canada Winter Games - only person in Windsor-Essex to qualify

February 12, 2024

Breanna Williams has qualified for the Canadian Special Olympics Team and will be competing at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games (Calgary 2024) from February 27 – March 2, 2024.  Ms. Williams is 15 years old, and the only one from Windsor-Essex to qualify. 

Ms. Williams, a long-time client of the John McGivney Children’s Centre, has been skating and practicing since she was four years old. This is her first time going to the Nationals.  “I’m really excited about going, and I’m counting down the days,” says Breanna. “I’ve been skating since I was a little girl, and this is a dream come true. I want to win the gold!”

The National Games are a culmination of years of training for Special Olympics athletes from across Canada. Athletes qualify from the Provincial / Territorial Games to compete at the National Games and for manty athletes this is the pinnacle of their competitive experience. Calgary 2024 is a qualifying event for the Special Olympics World Winter Games in 2025.





“We have watched Breanna grow from a little girl into the remarkably determined and talented young woman she is today,” says Jennifer Jovanovski, CEO John McGivney Children’s Centre.  “Breanna continues to set goals for herself that many of us could only dream of.  She works extremely hard to rise above any obstacles that stand in the way of achieving her goals!  We are so thrilled for Breanna and will be cheering her on!” 

About the Special Olympics

Special Olympics is specifically designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities, and some athlete may have co-exiting disabilities. It is different than the Paralympics, which is specifically designed for individuals with physical disabilities.

Individuals who compete in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills and greater self-confidence. They exhibit courage and enthusiasm and build lasting friendships. These life skills enhance their ability to live normal productive lives. Special Olympics athletes hold jobs, own homes, go to school and successfully confront life’s challenges.