April 19, 2022

Hannah dela Cruz is a CCAA Torchbearer

Knowing the positive impact that sport can have regardless of ability, Hannah dela Cruz initiated a partnership based on a shared love for soccer. For developing a collaboration between her varsity team and the local Special Olympics program, dela Cruz is a 2021-22 recipient of the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Torchbearer Scholarship presented by Hudl.

Dela Cruz, of Delta, British Columbia, is in her third year of Therapeutic Recreation studies at Douglas College. She is the starting centre-back with the Royals Women’s Soccer team and intends to pursue a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy.

The Athletics Department at Douglas is known for encouraging their student-athletes to be well rounded citizens and challenging them to be engaged in their communities. Inspired by these principles, dela Cruz brought the idea of hosting a ‘Soccer Jamboree’ for local Special Olympic athletes to her coaches and fellow teammates.

“We want our student-athletes to feel empowered and be involved with community events that are meaningful to them,” said Chris Laxton, Head Coach of the Douglas Women’s Soccer Team. “Hannah initiated the idea of collaboration with her team, and everyone loved it and wanted to support her in staging the event.”

Dela Cruz’s cousin is member of the Special Olympics British Columbia (SOBC) Coquitlam program and one of the Royals’ most dedicated and vocal fans. The goal of the ‘Soccer Jamboree’ was to give him and his teammates a ‘Douglas Royals Game Day Experience’.

“He has always shown me how to be inclusive of people with disabilities and the positive impact sports can have on people of all abilities,” said dela Cruz of her cousin. “I had volunteered with his Special Olympics group in the past but when he joined the soccer team, I saw an opportunity to expand that relationship.”

Dela Cruz took on all the details and challenges associated with the event – coordinating the date, participants, equipment, activities, health and safety protocols and even a group meal. With the SOBC, she developed the training and games based on the participants’ abilities and skill levels. Dela Cruz then led her 20 teammates through the preparations on how they would safely execute developmentally appropriate and engaging activities.

“Sports can be such a great arena for teaching inclusiveness and opening our hearts and minds towards people with intellectual disabilities,” said Sheila Hogan, Local Coordinator with SOBC Coquitlam. “To have someone as young as Hannah take on this leadership role was amazing. Opportunities like the one she created make everyone a winner.”

In addition to the skill development sessions, the “Soccer Jamboree” wrapped up with a full game featuring players from both groups. Everyone then spent some time socializing and enjoying a meal together after the game, which allowed them to connect on another level.

“Initiatives like Hannah’s ‘Soccer Jamboree’ really highlight the best aspects of sport and its ability to break down barriers and bring people together,” said Joel Mrak, CCAA VP of Safe Sport. “We are so impressed by what our student leaders have been able to accomplish in their communities, and this is a fantastic example of what it means to be more than just a student-athlete. Hannah is very deserving of this recognition.”

Dela Cruz was selected as a PACWEST All-Star in her rookie season with the Royals and elevated to Team Captain in year two. She has since earned two more Conference All-Star honours and has been a CCAA National Scholar.

“Hannah has been instrumental in developing a positive team environment, including during the pandemic and cancelled 2020 season,” said Laxton. “Her leadership has been felt on and off the field.”

Dela Cruz hoped that this event would give all the participants a chance to interact with athletes of different abilities in a safe, fun, and inclusive environment. The feedback from everyone involved was overwhelmingly positive. There were intentions to build upon the collaboration and make it a recurring event, but unfortunately the COVID-19 pandemic paused those plans. Both groups are hoping to re-engage in 2022.

“I am honoured that Hudl and the CCAA have selected me as a CCAA Torchbearer,” said dela Cruz upon learning of the distinction. “To receive this recognition further motivates me to make an impact in my community and discover more ways to give back.”