In 2025, Special Olympics Alberta launched its Athlete Ambassador Program, which gives athletes from across the province the opportunity to represent the organization at local events and serve as leaders within the Special Olympics community.
Learn more about our current Athlete Ambassadors below.
athlete ambassador
Darby Taylor
Darby Taylor is an enthusiastic Special Olympics Alberta athlete who has found joy and a sense of belonging through sports. Growing up, Darby struggled to keep up with his peers, but Special Olympics gave him the opportunity to become the athlete he always dreamed of being. With the support of dedicated volunteers, Darby not only developed his athletic skills but also formed lasting friendships with others who share similar experiences. “I made great friends with other people with special needs like me. No one laughed at my clumsiness or got impatient if I was too slow. This encouraged me to try harder and to do better,” shared Darby. Special Olympics has not only played a part in Darby’s life but has impacted his entire family as well. Darby’s sister is an athlete who trains alongside him, and their parents are both volunteers with the organization. Darby has had the opportunity to compete in various events, including traveling to Antigonish, Nova Scotia, as part of Team Alberta for the SOC Summer Games. Beyond sports, Darby has grown in confidence and skill, speaking at fundraising events and securing two part-time jobs.
athlete ambassador
Elisabeth (Lizzy) Baril
Lizzy Baril is a dedicated Special Olympics Alberta athlete who participates in basketball, athletics, golf, and swimming in Red Deer. Being involved in Special Olympics helps her maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay active, while also providing a sense of community that has made Red Deer feel more like home. Lizzy loves being social and running into fellow athletes whenever she catches the bus, reinforcing the bonds she’s formed through the program. She is passionate about raising awareness that disabilities come in many forms, and she encourages others to recognize the unique strengths of every individual.
athlete ambassador
Damion Chiodo
Damion Chiodo joined Special Olympics Alberta in 2017 to stay active and play sports in an environment where he felt he could truly fit in. His experience with Special Olympics has been life-changing and Damion says, that “it has given me so much by helping me to be a more confident person.” Over the years, he has made many great friends and met inspiring coaches who have supported him on his journey. Damion believes that the real prize in being a Special Olympics athlete isn’t just about wins and losses but about enjoying the journey and making new friends along the way. Damion is one of Special Olympics Alberta’s Athlete Health Messengers, and as a result, he launched his own podcast, Accessible Athletics, where he aims to inspire fellow Special Olympics athletes to focus on the importance of eating well, exercising, and staying fit throughout their lives. Through his podcast, Damion hopes to empower others to lead healthy, active lives and continue to thrive both on and off the field.
