Chasing Greatness: What Young Athletes Can Learn from Canada's Best

Since childhood, the dream of becoming an Olympian has always lingered in the back of my mind. My earliest memories trace back to the 1984 Games in Los Angeles, but it was the 1988 Seoul Olympics that truly captivated me. I vividly remember ensuring I was home in time to watch Ben Johnson’s historic race. The moment that followed was electrifying—a snapshot of Canadian pride I’ll never forget.

Brian Williams’ iconic commentary echoed through my living room, forever etched in my memory:

"Ben Johnson, number 159, Canada's world record holder in the 100 meters. He's been almost unbeatable over the last two years. His biggest rival, Carl Lewis, will be in lane three... Johnson is off to a brilliant start! He has exploded out of the blocks! Carl Lewis is trying to catch up, but Ben Johnson is far ahead. Ben Johnson is powering down the track—look at him go! Johnson is pulling away—Ben Johnson wins gold for Canada! Ben Johnson, 9.79! A new world record! Ben Johnson is the fastest man on the planet!"

While the aftermath of that race is a story in itself, the initial surge of inspiration was undeniable. From that moment on, every Olympics held a special place in my heart. I found myself drawn to various sports, always wondering, “What if?” Yet, the leap from inspiration to commitment is vast and complex.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting some truly inspiring athletes. Reflecting on what sets them apart, three key traits consistently emerge that separate the great from the exceptional. In my many years in minor hockey, I’ve seen firsthand that high-performance athletes tap into another gear, pushing themselves beyond talent and dedication. These three key characteristics truly set them apart:

Sacrifice

In the world of sport, sacrifice is more than a buzzword; it’s a defining characteristic of those who aspire to reach the pinnacle. For athletes, sacrifice means making tough choices—giving up personal comforts, social time, and even financial security in pursuit of their goals. It’s the willingness to endure hardships, relentless training, time away from loved ones, and the constant pressure to perform at the highest level.

Penny Oleksiak's journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics is a testament to the sacrifices required for success. She endured extensive time away from family and friends, adhered to a grueling training regimen, and faced the mental and physical strain of competing at an elite level. Despite setbacks and the pressure to replicate her early successes, Oleksiak’s unwavering commitment allowed her to continue representing Canada with distinction. Her story exemplifies the profound sacrifices necessary to achieve greatness on the Olympic stage. (Photo Courtesy of Gettyimages - Ian MacNicol)

"Every day, we make choices that bring us closer to our dreams but farther from the comforts others might take for granted." – Damian Warner, Decathlon Gold Medalist

Resiliency

Athletes often face setbacks—injuries, losses, or external pressures. Their ability to bounce back, stay focused, and keep striving for excellence is a crucial lesson for young athletes.

A remarkable example of overcoming adversity is Mark McMorris, a Canadian Olympian and professional snowboarder. In March 2017, less than a year before the PyeongChang Olympics, McMorris suffered a near-fatal accident while snowboarding in British Columbia. He crashed into a tree, sustaining severe injuries: a fractured jaw, broken left arm, ruptured spleen, pelvic fracture, rib fractures, and a collapsed lung. His injuries were so critical that he was placed in a medically induced coma and underwent multiple surgeries. (Photo Courtesy of Gettyimages - Catherine Ivill)

Despite the long and grueling recovery, McMorris showed incredible resilience. He endured intense physical rehabilitation, never wavering in his pursuit of Olympic competition. Astonishingly, just 11 months after the accident, McMorris competed in the 2018 Winter Olympics, where he won a bronze medal in the men’s slopestyle event. His story is one of the most inspiring comebacks in Olympic history, showcasing his indomitable spirit and perseverance.

"It’s not about how many times you fall, but how many times you get back up and keep going." – Penny Oleksiak, Swimming

Life & Career After Sport

Planning for a career beyond athletics is crucial. Many Canadian Olympians understand that their time in the spotlight is limited, so they pursue education or other interests alongside their sports to ensure a future when their athletic career ends.

Clara Hughes, a six-time Olympic medalist in cycling and speed skating, is a shining example of planning for life after sport. After retiring, she earned a degree in psychology and became a passionate advocate for mental health. Her work with initiatives like Bell Let’s Talk, where she openly shares her struggles with depression, has been instrumental in reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. (Photo Courtesy of Gettyimages - Kevork Djansezian)

Hughes’ commitment to life after sport is further exemplified by her 110-day, 12,000-kilometer cycling journey across Canada to promote mental health awareness. Her dedication to making a difference beyond her athletic career demonstrates how athletes can use their platform and experiences to contribute positively to society.

"Sport is a chapter, not the whole book. The lessons I’ve learned as an athlete are the foundation, but not the final story." – Ellie Black, Gymnastics

Last minute of play...

As you chase your dreams, remember that greatness in sport isn't just about winning medals—it's about the journey you take, the sacrifices you make, the resilience you build, and the plans you create for life beyond the game. The stories of these Canadian Olympians show that true success comes from pushing beyond your limits, learning from every setback, and preparing for a future that’s as bright as your athletic ambitions.

Whether on the podium or in life, let these lessons guide you to not just be a great athlete, but an exceptional person.