Update: David’s birthday wish came true, as he returned to Saskatchewan with hardware in hand.

Team Saskatchewan brought home the bronze in the Floor Hockey Nationals at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024. David and his teammates finished third in the Wild-Rose Division, on the heels of Team Quebec and Team Ontario.  

“In talking to him, David was very proud of his efforts and his participation at the games,” said Joey Panko, director of Supported Living Programs.

A Ranch participant’s talents are taking him to the national stage.

David Sanguais will join Team Saskatchewan to compete in the Floor Hockey Nationals at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024.

David is a participant of Ranch Ehrlo’s Supported Living Program (SLP) which provides supportive living services to older adolescents and youth adults coping with intellectual and developmental differing abilities and other mental health challenges. The focus of the program is to provide long-term support services and to develop individualized treatment programs based on social integration. 

David is preparing for his big game, and will depart Regina on February 26^th, in preparation for the opening ceremony and puck drop on February 28^th.

“I’m getting ready for my first trip to nationals in Calgary. I’m very happy and very emotional,” said David. “This will be my first time being away from home.”

David has been involved in the Special Olympics Saskatchewan for more than 28 years, participating in a variety of sports including bowling, bocce, baseball, and floor hockey.

David’s team, the Vipers, claimed first place at last year’s provincial games, qualifying them to compete as Team Saskatchewan at the national level. Since then, David and his teammates have trained at the Regina Sports Performance Centre and practiced weekly at the Core Richie Neighbourhood Centre.

“Every step of the way, Dave has put his full attention and focus into it all. He gives 110 per cent to everything he does, and this has been no exception,” said Sam Jensen, clinical consultant. “We are so excited for Dave to experience this huge accomplishment for himself and to have that spotlight he so much deserves.”

While getting gold would be the ultimate experience, David said he’s just as much looking forward to meeting new people from across the country, and to compete at a higher level.

“I can also explore Calgary on my birthday because my birthday is on the Saturday that I’m there,” he said excitedly. “It’s a birthday wish to me!”

The national games will be held from February 28^th until March 2^nd at the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex in Calgary. You can cheer David on and catch the action live by  streaming the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024.