Nearly 60 athletes from Special Olympics Delaware are preparing to represent the First State at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, set for June 20–26 in Minnesota’s Twin Cities metropolitan area.
The national competition will bring together more than 3,000 athletes, 1,400 coaches, and 10,000 volunteers from across the United States, showcasing the achievements of athletes with intellectual disabilities and promoting inclusion through sports.
Team Delaware athletes will compete in seven sports: Unified softball, Unified Champion Schools basketball, bocce, swimming, bowling, tennis, and track and field. Delaware also will be represented in the Youth Leadership Experience, a program designed to help young leaders develop advocacy, communication, and leadership skills through inclusive activities and training.
“Competing at the Special Olympics USA Games is an extraordinary honor for our athletes,” said David Halley, President and CEO of Special Olympics Delaware. “These athletes have trained for years to earn the opportunity to represent Delaware on the national stage. They embody determination, courage, and the power of inclusion, and we couldn’t be more proud of the team traveling to Minnesota.”
Before heading to the USA Games, many members of Team Delaware will compete in the 55th Special Olympics Delaware Summer Games on June 12 and 13 at the University of Delaware. The event will provide members of the media and the public an opportunity to meet athletes, coaches, and delegation members before they depart for national competition.
Held every four years, the Special Olympics USA Games represent the highest level of Special Olympics competition in the country. Athletes qualify through state and regional competitions and earn their place at the national event through their performance and dedication to training.
In addition to sport competitions, athletes attending the USA Games will participate in opening and closing ceremonies, health screenings, leadership programs, and other activities while interacting with volunteers and supporters from across the nation.
“Events like the USA Games demonstrate that sports have the power to change lives and communities,” Halley said. “Our athletes are not just competing—they are ambassadors for inclusion, respect, and opportunity.”
Family members, supporters, and fans can follow Team Delaware’s journey throughout the week on Special Olympics Delaware’s social media channels and website.
More information about Special Olympics Delaware and the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games is available at Special Olympics Delaware.
