A Day to Shine: Students from Transcona Collegiate Build Confidence at Manitoba Special Olympics High School Track and Field Meet

Running shoes pounded the track, relay batons exchanged hands, and cheers echoed across the field as students from Transcona Collegiate embraced every moment of the Manitoba Special Olympics track and field meet for high schools on May 27. Whether sprinting toward a finish line, launching a mini javelin, or leaping into the sand pit, every student athlete brought determination and Titan school spirit.

“We’re so proud of our athletes,” said Catherine Roch, a resource teacher at Transcona Collegiate who supported students at the meet. “We look for opportunities to help students build skills, confidence and connection. They got all of that at the meet, plus they had fun being active, which we hope will help them to develop healthy habits that last long after they leave school.”

The meet was held at Maples Collegiate and included schools from across Metro Winnipeg and surrounding communities. The Manitoba Special Olympics School Programs, offered at no cost, give students with intellectual disabilities a chance to move, play, and discover new skills in a supportive and inclusive environment. The program also offers students the opportunity to participate in bocce, basketball, and soccer at separate events.

Students at the track meet competed in long jump, shot put, mini javelin, 50m and 100m sprints, and the 4x100m relay. Manitoba Special Olympics staff, staff from schools, and student volunteers were on hand to support the athletes, keep the event moving, and create a memorable day for everyone.

“Transcona Collegiate strives to be welcoming for everyone,” said Teresa Lillie, another resource teacher from Transcona Collegiate who was involved with the track meet. “We embrace diversity and inclusion and always try to offer equitable opportunities for participation and belonging. We’re grateful for a partner like Manitoba Special Olympics who helps us do this.”

It was the first time that Transcona Collegiate took part in the track and field meet. In total, 22 student athletes participated, and for most of them, it was the first time competing in an event like this one.

“Seeing the students’ pride in their accomplishments was a highlight of the year for me,” said Catherine. “I’m sure many of the students feel the same.”