Brock University student Meghan Vaszko didn’t just dive into swim coaching. She’s made a splash, earning the Rising Star Coach of the Year from Special Olympics Ontario.

Now in her final year at Brock, the Political Science student and former varsity swimmer received the provincial award in recognition of her innovative, athlete-centered coaching with the St. Catharines Otters, a Special Olympics swim team located in Niagara. Vaszko was also a finalist for the national title.

Since joining the Otters in 2021, Vaszko’s impact has gone beyond the pool. Known for tailoring her coaching to each athlete’s needs and acting as a sign language interpreter for swimmers who are deaf and hard of hearing, she has built a nurturing environment that empowers her athletes to succeed.

Vaszko credits Otters head coach Carol-Ann Skulj and previous head coach Sheri-Lyn Picton for helping her find her feet as a coach.

“These swimmers and coaches reignited my love for the sport,” Vaszko said. “Their joy and commitment inspire me to be a better coach and person.”

Balancing a full academic load at Brock with twice-weekly Otters practices can be a challenge, but Vaszko remains a fixture at team events, building bonds that extend beyond training sessions.

Her commitment to creating inclusive spaces speaks to her long-term goal of advancing adaptive sports through Special Olympics coaching.

“Coaching with the Otters has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life,” Vaszko said. “I never want to leave the Special Olympics world. Their happiness is my ultimate reward.”