Special Olympics Ontario Summer Games a triumph in Brantford and Brant County

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

Despite bouts of challenging weather, the 2025 Special Olympics Ontario Provincial Summer Games concluded as a resounding success in Brantford and Brant County from July 10 to 13.

Lindsay Hamilton and Geno Reda of TSN co-hosted the opening ceremonies at the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre. The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, delivered a keynote address touching on the theme of unity and perseverance.

Brantford Police Chief Jason Saunders noted the Games went beyond competition. “It was a celebration of courage, determination and the incredible power of the human spirit,” he said.

Deputy OPP Commissioner Kari Dart praised the athletes’ perseverance as an inspiration to all, while Six Nations Police Chief Darren Montour welcomed the athletes and offered his congratulations.

Former Paris resident Zac Dalpe, an honorary chair of the Games, also participated in the opening ceremony by leading the crowd in the Special Olympics cheer and encouraging participants to stay dedicated but most of all, to have fun.

Presented by the Wayne Gretzky Foundation and TD Canada Trust, the Games welcomed over 1,000 athletes from across the province to compete in five sports: athletics, bocce, golf, soccer and softball. Hosted by the Brantford Police Service in partnership with Six Nations Police and the Ontario Provincial Police, the event celebrated the remarkable achievements of athletes.

The competition served as a qualifier for Team Ontario selections for the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in Medicine Hat, Alta.

This year’s Games included several notable firsts. A dedicated women’s soccer division made its debut, laying the groundwork for Ontario’s first women’s team at the national level. In golf, the addition of Level 5 play introduced 18-hole competition at the provincial stage.

The bocce competition opened at the Six Nations Recreation Complex with a special community celebration that honoured Indigenous culture and inclusion.

As the 2025 Provincial Summer Games drew to a close, athletes, families, and supporters gathered one last time for a moving closing ceremony filled with heartfelt speeches, well-earned accolades, and exuberant celebration.

Dignitaries and organizers delivered remarks recognizing not only the athletic achievements seen throughout the Games, but also the courage, determination and sportsmanship demonstrated by every participant. From personal bests to team triumphs, the athletes were honoured for their dedication, resilience, and unwavering spirit.

Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis attended the closing ceremony and shared a heartfelt message on social media: “To the athletes — you made us cheer, you made us smile, and most importantly, you made us proud. To the families, coaches, and support teams — thank you for being the foundation behind these champions. And to the hundreds of volunteers, organizers, and community members — your dedication made this event a true success.”

Special acknowledgment was also given to the hundreds of volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes — from timekeepers and team liaisons to medical staff and event coordinators. Their thankless efforts were instrumental in creating a safe, seamless and inclusive experience for all involved.

Members of the Rotary Satellite Club of Paris and the Rotary Club of Brantford came together to serve dinner to athletes and coaches, with meals provided by Strodes of Brantford. It was a fitting finale to a weekend that showcased not only athletic excellence, but also the power of community coming together in support of something truly meaningful.