Special Olympics Swift Current's swim coach Jackie Powell was named the Senior Associate Swimming Coach for Team Canada ahead of the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games.

The announcement came in a release late last week, and marks Powell's fourth opportunity to represent the southwest and the nation on the international stage.

"Just to be short-listed and to be able to be selected to the national team once again is truly an honour and something I take a great deal of pride in," Powell said. "It was very exciting and I'm looking forward to another year of great adventures and great learning through the national team program."

Not only will there be that opportunity to wear the Team Canada colours, but another chance to continue growing her passion for coaching the sport of swimming is one Powell thrives on.

"To be able to see them succeed in something that they're enjoying and everything that sport brings - not only is it adding to their quality of life, they're doing something that is benefiting them now," Powell said of the joy she gets out of the coaching process.

"It's also something that they're going to be able to enjoy for the rest of their life. To be able to give them the tools and the skills to be able to to enjoy something like swimming... I'm just fortunate to be able to share that."

The 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games will take place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates from March 14-21 but before that, athletes must advance from the National Games.

The 2018 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, held in the late-summer months, will give a chance for Special Olympics Swift Current athletes a chance to qualify for the World Games.

Getting to witness the growth of the local athletes first hand understandably generates some excitement when thinking about qualifying internationally.

"Locally we've had a number of athletes make it to the National Games in the past, and this year as well. That is always an exciting experience for the athletes and everybody that's able to take part in that. To be able to take that one step further and go to an international games would be amazing," shared Powell, who provided a bit more insight as to what unique atmosphere would await those who do qualify.

"It (the World Games) is similar in a way to a lot of the other competitions that we've been to, but when you walk into a stadium and there's over 10,000 people in the stands watching the opening ceremonies with you.. that's pretty special."

The first step in qualifying is from July 31- August 4, when Antigonish, Nova Scotia hosts the 2018 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.