Tia Zimmerman, a student at Englefeld school, will soon be representing not only Englefeld, Saskatchewan, but she will also be representing Canada at the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in swimming. 

There was a special send-off held at her school on February 28th to wish her luck and present her with some words of encouragement.

Many dignitaries were in attendance to say good luck. Darrell Paproski represented the Horizon School Division, Mark Fedak a Board Trustee, Darrell Athmer Mayor of Englefeld, Todd Goudy MLA, CEO of Special Olympics, and Tia's swim coach Deb Stumborg. Members of Parliament Cathay Wagantall and Kelly Block sent letters. Many of the representatives gave gifts along with their words of support. The event wrapped up with cake.

Four years ago Zimmerman started swimming and even though she started with a life jacket she is now like a fish in water.

Zimmerman has come a long way in her swimming, winning five national medals, beating her personal bests, and now being an athlete at the Special Olympic World Games. 

She has one last training camp to attend before traveling over 11,000 km to compete.