Theresa Garagan's journey with Special Olympics began while attending a banquet in Edmonton for the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) where she was assigned to sit with an athlete and her family. During their conversation, the athlete shared that the alpine skiing program was on the verge of being canceled due to a lack of a head coach. Theresa quickly offered to help given her personal background in skiing. The following Monday, she received a call from Special Olympics, thanking her for volunteering to become the new coach. "I couldn’t say no," she recalls. "And the rest is history."
Since then, Theresa has become a key figure in Special Olympics, serving as the head coach for alpine skiing and athletics. She recently trained two alpine ski athletes who competed at the 2025 World Games in Italy. Her passion for coaching and mentoring has had a profound impact on the athletes she works with, and she is deeply committed to the mission of Special Olympics.
"Being part of Special Olympics gives me a sense of normalcy, value, and acceptance," Theresa shared. "As a police officer, my life can be full of stress and crisis situations, and this takes an emotional toll. Coaching and mentoring with Special Olympics has been a way for me to give back and find balance in my life. It’s been a constant source of joy."
For Theresa, Special Olympics has reinforced her belief in inclusion and the importance of supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities. Her early experience working with special needs individuals at a swimming pool during post-secondary education solidified her understanding and commitment to fostering inclusive environments.
"My understanding of inclusion has always been strong," she explains. "But being involved in Special Olympics has given me a deeper connection to the athletes and a chance to see the impact that inclusion can have on their lives."
When asked about her favorite part of being involved in Special Olympics, Theresa shared several moments that have shaped her experience. "Seeing the excitement in the faces of the athletes is incredible. Watching them grow, develop their skills, and socialize with their friends—it’s what keeps me coming back. I also love seeing them enjoy activities like dancing, where they don’t care what people think. It’s moments like these that show just how much of a family Special Olympics truly is."
Though Theresa was humbled by receiving the King Charles Coronation Medal, she expressed her preference for working behind the scenes rather than seeking recognition. "I love what I do, and I don’t do it for the awards," she said. "But to be recognized like this is an honor I will cherish."
Theresa continues to support athletes and lead with passion. Her influence within the Special Olympics community remains undeniable. Her dedication, both as a coach and mentor, exemplifies the spirit of Special Olympics—where every athlete is valued, included, and celebrated.
By: Naomi Eykelbosh