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{Photo Credit: Jackie Powell} Jackie Powell and her two swimmers

With the Special Olympic World Games just around the corner, one of Swift Current's own his getting ready to head out to Los Angeles.

Jackie Powell will represent the South West, as a coach for the Aquatics team.

Powell says it's the athletes that drive her to do what she does.

"Every time they hit the water, or we get to a practice, the athletes are happy to be there and wanting to do their best. Just seeing them improve skill wise is something we strive for on a regular basis and at every practice." she said.

According to Powell, these Special Olympic events do so much for the athletes, going beyond just teaching them sport.

"It's meeting new friends, doing the best that they can and just enjoying the overall experience. For some of these individuals it's a huge life skill for them to be on their own away from their family for two weeks." she added.

The games will get underway on July 25th from Los Angeles, California.