On March 28, 2026, I’ll be participating in the Marathon of Sport with motionball in support of the Special Olympics Canada Foundation.
This is my third year being involved with motionball at the University of Waterloo, and my second year serving as Co-Event Director on the committee. Over the past few years, I’ve become incredibly passionate about this organization and its mission: bringing people together through unified sport, where everyone is included and celebrated regardless of ability.
Marathon of Sport is an all-day event where students and community members team up with local Special Olympics athletes to play a variety of sports, connect, and build friendships. It’s an energizing and meaningful day that highlights inclusion, teamwork, and the power of sport to bring people together.
One of the most special parts of this event is the impact it has on the athletes themselves. Many athletes say that Marathon of Sport is their favorite day of the year, a day where they feel truly celebrated, supported, and included in their community. It’s an opportunity for them to meet new people, play alongside peers, and be recognized for their abilities and accomplishments.
As someone who has been incredibly lucky to compete in sports at the provincial, national, and university level, this experience has made me reflect on how many opportunities in sport we often don’t think twice about: registering for hockey, gymnastics, softball, field hockey, or whatever sport came to mind. Those opportunities were accessible to me growing up, but that isn’t always the case for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Organizations like motionball and Special Olympics are working to help close that gap.
Sport creates community, friendships, memories, and supports both physical and mental health. Increasing awareness and accessibility for those who may not have had the same opportunities is something I care deeply about, and that’s a big part of why I chose to support motionball.
Last year was a huge milestone for our event, bringing together around 100 participants and raising approximately $9,000 to support Special Olympics athletes. This year, our committee is aiming even higher.
I have a $1,000 fundraising goal, and any support, big or small, truly makes a difference. Donations help create opportunities for athletes across Canada. For example:
• $300 can help certify a volunteer Special Olympics coach
• $600 can help send a Special Olympics athlete to compete at provincial games
• $900 can help fund an 8-week gym rental for an Active Start program (ages 2–6)
• $1200 can help start a new Special Olympics club in a small community
If you’re able to support, I would be incredibly grateful. Every donation helps make sport more accessible and inclusive.
You can learn more about motionball here: www.motionball.com
Thank you so much for your support, it truly makes a meaningful difference.
Mackenzie
All donations over $20 are eligible for an official tax receipt.
