Support Monika Girn

On March 20th, I will be participating in motionball Marathon of Sport, an all-day fundraiser where my team and I will spend the day playing sports alongside Special Olympics athletes from our community.

As someone who has navigated sport both as an athlete with a physical disability and as a researcher studying inclusion in sport, this event is especially meaningful to me. I currently work in the Adapted Physical Activity Lab, where my research focuses on physical disability and physical education. Through both my academic work and my own athletic journey — including experiences within the Canadian Paralympic Development Program— I have seen how powerful sport can be when opportunities truly exist for everyone to participate.
Sport is often described as universal, but in reality many people with disabilities still face barriers to access, participation, and belonging. That is why events like Marathon of Sport matter. They create spaces where athletes of all abilities come together to compete, connect, and celebrate sport as a shared experience.

One of the most inspiring parts of this event each year is the opportunity to meet and compete alongside Special Olympics athletes like Nicole, who has been part of motionball for 11 years. Through motionball, Nicole stays active, builds friendships, and helps raise awareness and funding for Special Olympics athletes.

In Nicole’s words:

“Being part of motionball makes me happy because I get to play sports with my friends, meet new people, and help raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics. The support from motionball gives me the chance to train, compete, and be the best I can be.”
Special Olympics provides thousands of athletes with opportunities to train, compete, and build community through sport. The funds raised through motionball help make those opportunities possible.

My team and I have set a fundraising goal, and with your support we can help create a more inclusive sport community in Canada.

If you are able, please consider donating to my fundraising page. Every contribution helps support athletes and expand opportunities for inclusive sport.

To learn more about motionball for Special Olympics, please visit www.motionball.com.

Thank you so much for your support,

Monika

All donations over $20 are eligible for an official tax receipt.