University of Toronto
who are we
motionball is a national non-profit organization that empowers young Canadians to be leaders in their communities, raising funds and awareness for Special Olympics through integrated social and sporting events. Our mandate is to introduce the next generation of donors, volunteers and sponsors to the Special Olympics movement through integrated social and sporting events.
At University of Toronto, we’re working to ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities living in Ontario are included, supported, and celebrated. We create relevant, meaningful experiences for university students to give back to their community, while building relationships with local Special Olympics athletes.
what do we do
motionball University of Toronto hosts integrated events on and off campus throughout the year with the goal of engaging students and Special Olympics athletes in our community. Check out our Instagram page @motionballoft to follow along with events we’re hosting this year as we look ahead to motionball’s flagship event, Marathon of Sport happening on March 20th, 2026.
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MARATHON OF SPORT
what is a marathon of sport
Marathon of Sport is motionball’s flagship event that brings together university students and local Special Olympics athletes for a fun and inclusive day of sport. As students play alongside Special Olympics athletes, they have the opportunity to experience the power of inclusion, sportsmanship, and community building. Marathon of Sport welcomes University of Toronto community to a full day event that puts the fun back into giving!
get involved!
meet our event directors
Every motionball committee is run by volunteer student leaders who are passionate about making a difference on their campus.
Martina Kacan
Hi! My name is Martina Kacan and I have been event director for the University of Toronto motionball chapter for the last 3 years. motionball has been a highlight during my time in undergrad. It has given me the opportunity to meet the incredible people involved in this organizing and connect with Special Olympic athletes across Toronto. Seeing athletes light up, watching students come together, and knowing our efforts are making a meaningful impact is what keeps me coming back every year. What I love about motionball is that it encourages us to learn from one another, build real connections, and celebrate people of all abilities.
Dylan Silver
Hi, I’m Dylan! I'm in my final year of my undergraduate degree studying kinesiology, and this is my third year as one of the event directors at UofT. I’ve been with motionball since my first year of university, and it's been one of the best experiences I've had. I joined because my older brother has an intellectual disability, and I've seen firsthand how sport has given him a sense of belonging, autonomy, and meaning. I hope to continue supporting motionball after I graduate, and contribute to inclusive and accessible sports while making a meaningful difference.
Alaina Tsimicalis
Hey, my name is Alaina Tsimicalis! I am super excited to say this is my first year as an event director for UofT’s motionball Chapter, a position I will hold for the rest of my undergrad. motionball has been an integral part through my time here at UofT. When I experienced a day with SO athletes in my first year at a motionball x KPE UofT O-Week event, I knew I had to join this community. Since then, motionball has demonstrated multiple aspects but most of all, the urgency in celebrating all individuals, no matter one’s ability as this is what separates SO athletes from us. It is not due to a disability but rather, their excitement in celebrating all connections and the willingness to foster friendship with a radiant and kind demeanor. As a result of the impact SO athletes have had on me through the happiness and friendships I've created and shared with them, I have decided to be a part of the motionball team from now and in the future.
why your support matters
This day not only brings awareness to the Special Olympics movement, but allows people with and without intellectual disabilities to interact, build lifelong friendships, and ultimately create more inclusive communities.
By making a donation to motionball or by entering a Team to participate, you’re helping to ensure that our friends at Special Olympics can continue to participate in the sport programs they love.
#NOGOODWAY
motionball for Special Olympics follows a transparent funding model that ensures the long-term sustainability of Special Olympics programs across the country. motionball is proud to donate 70% of the funds raised from this event to Special Olympics Ontario. This funding is directed to support programs for local athletes in the community. 25% is directed to the Special Olympics Canada Foundation, whose mission is to ensure the long-term financial integrity of the Special Olympics movement in Canada and to fund long term athlete and volunteer growth. The remaining 5% will help grow the #NoGoodWay Campaign aiming to end the use of the R-word (retard) in everyday conversation. We’re encouraging Canadians to make the choice to eliminate the R-word from their vocabulary and empower them to take #NoGoodWay to their circles of influence.
For any questions about out funding model, please reach out to us at info@motionball.com.
Thank you to our motionballU 2025-2026 Presenting Partner:
motionball is proud to be sponsored nationally by:
