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Special Olympics athletes star in 'amazing' Greyhounds Guardian game
Nearly 2,000 fans cheer on Special Olympics athletes as they take the ice with the Soo Greyhounds
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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Special Olympics athletes and the Soo Greyhounds came together for a fun-filled game in front of nearly 2,000 fans. The event, called the Greyhounds Guardians game, has been held for the second year in a row, bringing the two groups together to practice and play hockey. The game resulted in a 29-29 tie, with the athletes scoring goals and celebrating with the crowd.
Why it matters
The Greyhounds Guardians game provides a unique opportunity for Special Olympics athletes to participate in a team sport, build confidence, and feel a sense of belonging. The event also raises funds for the Sault Ste. Marie Special Olympics and Hound Power Inc., supporting these important community organizations.
The details
Since October, the Special Olympics athletes and Soo Greyhounds have been practicing together weekly, with the athletes learning to skate and play hockey. The game itself featured 58 total goals, high fives, and even a friendly mid-game scuffle between Greyhounds players. The event was an emotional one for Greyhounds coach John Dean, who was moved by the athletes' progress and the crowd's enthusiastic response.
- The second annual Greyhounds Guardians game was held on March 2, 2026.
- The athletes and Greyhounds players have been practicing together since October.
The players
Soo Greyhounds
The Soo Greyhounds are a junior ice hockey team based in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, that plays in the Ontario Hockey League.
Sault Ste. Marie Special Olympics
The Sault Ste. Marie Special Olympics is a local chapter of the global Special Olympics organization that provides sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Scott MacDonald
A special education teacher at White Pines Collegiate in Sault Ste. Marie.
John Dean
The head coach of the Soo Greyhounds, who spearheaded the first Greyhounds Guardians game last year.
What they’re saying
“It was amazing to see these kids come on the ice. When they first started — unsure of themselves, unsure how to skate — but with the care and concern that each of the Greyhounds athletes took with them, these kids were skating in no time.”
— Scott MacDonald, special education teacher
“I'm a bit of a baby, so I was super emotional. Watching players that, at first, were extremely shy to even communicate with us now celebrating and holding legit conversations, players that couldn't skate going up and down the ice and putting pucks in the back of the net, and watching their reaction when the crowd went bananas.”
— John Dean, Greyhounds coach
What’s next
The Greyhounds Guardians game is expected to continue as an annual event, providing ongoing opportunities for Special Olympics athletes to participate in hockey and build connections with the Soo Greyhounds team.
The takeaway
The Greyhounds Guardians game demonstrates the power of sports to bring communities together, foster inclusion, and empower individuals with intellectual disabilities. The event's success highlights the importance of creating accessible and supportive environments for all athletes to thrive.
