As the 2025 Special Olympics Ontario Provincial Summer Games approach, Brantford Police Chief Jason Saunders is urging local residents to get involved by supporting the “Draft An Athlete” program.
“For law enforcement, supporting Special Olympics is one of the most meaningful ways we give back to the community,” Saunders said at a press event on Thursday. “We are proud to stand alongside these athletes, not just as partners in safety, but as fans, champions, and supporters of their dreams.”
The “Draft An Athlete” initiative allows individuals, businesses, and organizations to directly assist Special Olympics athletes by covering their meals, travel, and accommodation costs. These contributions play a vital role in breaking down financial barriers, enabling athletes to focus on what matters most—competing with pride.
The call to action was made during the Be A Fan Day at the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, where local law enforcement from Brant County OPP, Brantford, Six Nations, and Hamilton police gathered to emphasize their commitment to inclusion, dignity, and the empowerment of individuals with intellectual disabilities through sport.
To further promote the games, officers are encouraged to wear Special Olympics foam fingers, take photos with athletes and community supporters, and share these moments on social media with the hashtags #BeAFan and #2025BrantfordSummerGames, tagging @SpecialOlympicsOntario and @TorchRunOntario.
The games, set for July 10-13, will feature more than 1,200 athletes competing in five sports:
Athletics at Kiwanis Field in Brantford
Bocce at the Six Nations Recreation Centre
Golf at the Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course
Soccer at the John Wright Soccer Complex
Softball at Green Lane Sports Complex in Paris
Det. Christine McCallum of the Brantford Police Service and games manager, noted that the event has already garnered the support of over 500 volunteers, although more are always welcome.
These games are a celebration of perseverance, unity, and inclusion, as communities come together to support athletes and foster an environment of empowerment. The excitement is growing as Brantford, Brant, and Six Nations prepare to welcome competitors from across Ontario for a truly special event.
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