The Waterloo Regional Police Service and Special Olympics Ontario have launched a "Draft an Athlete" program in support of the 2024 Provincial Spring Games.
The Draft an Athlete program provides an opportunity for community members and organizations to donate $500 to sponsor a competing athlete in the upcoming Provincial Spring Games, which will be hosted in Waterloo Region from May 23 to 26.
Each $500 donation will help cover expenses associated with the games including travel, food, accommodations, and competition fees.
More than 2,500 athletes, coaches, staff, and volunteers will come together to be part of this incredible event and allow Waterloo Region the opportunity to showcase its community and hospitality. The Games will feature five sports: basketball, swimming, rhythmic gymnastics, powerlifting and 10-pin bowling.
Police services throughout Ontario have been hosting the Special Olympics Ontario Provincial Games since 1996. This is the first time the Waterloo Regional Police Service will host.
The Games were originally scheduled to occur in Waterloo Region in 2020 but were postponed due to public health risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We're rebooting," said vice president of Special Olympics Ontario Cody Jansma. "A lot of excitement is starting to build in the region. Volunteers are starting to come in in droves and this is one of our final fundraising pushes. We're looking to draft all 750 athletes at $500 apiece to be able to totally fund these teams."
Police chief Mark Crowell said Waterloo Regional Police Service is honoured to have another opportunity to showcase the hard work and talent of these athletes.
“The Draft an Athlete program allows members of our community to be a part of these Games while making a profound difference in the life of an athlete. By helping offset the financial costs, we can make sure each athlete gets the chance to compete and turn their dreams into reality.”
Special Olympics is a national organization dedicated to promoting respect, acceptance, inclusion and human dignity for people with intellectual disabilities through sports.
To learn more about the Draft an Athlete program or to donate, visit https://provincialgames.com/