Amanda Trenchard has been involved in Special Olympics for nearly 30 years, and she takes on many roles within the organization. She first became engaged in Saskatoon after a close friend invited her to help coach a Special Olympics soccer team. What began as a casual request soon turned into a lifelong passion for Amanda.
"I went out once and was hooked," Amanda shared. "Working with the athletes was just infectious. Their joy of sport, sportsmanship, wanting to learn, and their immediate acceptance of me— it just spoke to me. This was something I wanted to belong to."
Her journey with Special Olympics quickly expanded beyond soccer. In addition to coaching, Amanda also took on the role of referee for both Special Olympics soccer and floor hockey. Her involvement deepened over time, culminating in her moving to Edmonton, where she continued her dedication by coaching the Edmonton Soccer and Snowshoe programs, and assisting the Strathcona track team.
Her leadership and participation have since grown on a national scale, having been selected as a part of the Special Olympics Canada Advisory Team for soccer development. She has also contributed to the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for 18 years and was the head coach for Team Canada’s women’s soccer team in 2023.
"My involvement in Special Olympics has become a key part of my life," she reflects. "It’s made me appreciate what I have. The athletes are my family, and I can’t imagine my life without them. They’ve brought me so much joy."
Through many years of service, Amanda has witnessed firsthand the extraordinary potential of Special Olympics athletes, noting that too often, people focus solely on the disability instead of the ability.
"Given the opportunity and guidance, our athletes can do anything. They have given me more than I could ever give them in return. They’ve enriched my life and made me a better person," she says.
One of Amanda’s proudest moments with the organization was taking an all-female soccer team to World Games to represent Canda. Not only was she selected to coach the team, but she had the privilege of watching her athletes shine on the world stage.
"Seeing the athletes represent Canada and excel made all the hard work worthwhile. It was one of my most rewarding experiences” Amanda shared.
While she is deeply honored by the King Charles Coronation Medal, Amanda emphasizes that the real reward for her has always been the personal growth and success she witnesses in her athletes, both on and off the field.
"I am so honored and humbled to receive this award for something I love to do," she says. "But every day I am awarded by coaching these athletes and seeing their growth as people, not just athletes."
As Special Olympics continues to grow and reach new heights, Amanda remains a dedicated volunteer whose unwavering commitment to the organization and its athletes makes her a beacon of support, inspiration, and leadership.
By: Naomi Eykelbosh