A pair of St. Thomas residents are getting ready to represent the city in Calgary this week when they take part in the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games.
Chris Freeman and Zack Griffith have both been dedicated Special Olympians for a number of years, taking part in soccer, floor hockey, basketball and golf, with the addition of swimming for Griffith.
Now the teammates and close friends are excited to see their hard work pay off as they get the chance to don their Team Ontario jerseys at Nationals.
myFM had the opportunity to sit down with the pair before their flight out on Monday and both shared that they’re honoured to attend on the city’s behalf.
Griffith explains that after the St. Thomas floor hockey team failed to qualify for this competition, a nearby club reached out to them for support.
It’s been a little bit of an adjustment the duo agreed as the division in which the two teams usually compete is different- but fun none the less!
This will be the first National competition for both gentlemen, so we had to ask what they were most looking forward to!
Griffith says he hopes to get the chance to explore and get a taste of what Calgary has to offer.
But as for Freeman, he only has one thing on his mind.
Griffith adds that the nerves have started to set in a little bit but they’re just excited to get playing!
“Divisioning” for floor hockey is set to take place Wednesday, before tournament play gets underway on Thursday.
Freeman and Griffith are also members of the St. Thomas Swish Special Olympics Basketball team and won’t have long to wait before their next big competition as the squad prepares for Provincials in May.
To support the boys and the rest of the London athletes heading to the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games, click here.
You can also follow along throughout the tournament- here!
Written by: K. Freeman
