About Me
Welcome
Hi, I’m Daniel Rozek, a Special Olympics athlete, game developer, and lifelong learner living in Kelowna, BC. I was born in Calgary in 1996 to Czech parents, and grew up in Cochrane before settling in Kelowna as a young teenager. I’m now part of the Special Olympics community, and part of the Pulse run club.
My Journey
From a young age, I’ve been drawn to movement, creativity, and challenge. I grew up playing soccer and cycling, and later dedicated over a decade to Tae-Kwon-Do, earning my second degree black belt and teaching for seven years. The core values of Tae-Kwon-Do:Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit continue to shape how I live and train. I also live with epilepsy and autism. Diagnosed with epilepsy as a baby, it reawakened at age seven and has presented ongoing medical challenges. One limitation is that I can’t drive, but I’ve adapted by cycling everywhere including sports, appointments, errands, and for fun. Staying active helps me manage my health and maintain a fit body, and my health issue.
Athletics & Special Olympics
I joined Special Olympics at age 27 and now compete in Track and Field and Cross-Country Skiing. I also enjoy soccer, basketball, hiking, longboarding, and swimming. For me, sport is more than competition, it’s fun, memorable, and a way to excite my family and inspire others. I train not just to win, but to grow—and to share the joy of movement with others.
Tech & Creativity
I hold a Bachelor of Computer Information Systems and specialize in game development, 3D modeling, and database management. I think in pictures, which fuels my creativity in designing 3D environments and printable models. I’ve created over 8 free video games online, and I’m currently working on a new project I hope to monetize. My interests span from Unity game design to inventory systems and interactive storytelling.
Goals & Aspirations
I’m training for upcoming national competitions and continuing to build my portfolio as a developer. I hope to inspire others living with epilepsy and autism, and to show that with perseverance, effort, motivation and passion, anything is possible. Whether through sport or software, I aim to create things that make people smile—and maybe even make their day.
Thanks for Visiting
Thanks for taking the time to learn about my journey. Feel free to explore my achievements, games, and ways to support my mission. Let’s keep moving forward—together.