Evan James was born in Edmonton, Alberta and raised in Edmonton and area. Evan is of Métis and Dene heritage. He began life with some health challenges including failure to thrive and stayed with a few different families before becoming a part of his family at 2 and a half years old.
Growing up Evan was always physically active but until finding Special Olympics in 2004, unable to find the support and opportunities to participate and compete with others at his level.
Evan has participated in a multitude of sports with Special Olympics Alberta Spruce Grove & District.
He has competed at eight Special Olympics Provincial Games in four different sports, two Western Canada Summer Games, one Canada Summer Games and five Special Olympics National Games in three different sports earning 60 medals. Evan’s dream of representing Canada at the Special Olympics World Games came true in Austria in 2017 as a speedskater. Evan won gold in the 777m at worlds.
Evan has embraced the opportunities he has been given to travel across the province, country, and around the world.
Now at 36, Evan is still active in many sports including floor hockey, cross country skiing, softball and soccer. Evan is currently an Athlete Ambassador spreading the message and power of Special Olympics. The opportunities that sport has given Evan have helped him become the determined, multi talented athlete and individual he is today.