More than 700 athletes from across Delaware will gather at the University of Delaware this weekend for the 55th Special Olympics Delaware Summer Games, the organization’s largest annual athletic competition.
The two-day event, scheduled for June 12-13 at the University of Delaware Athletic Complex, will bring together 736 athletes, 95 Unified partners, and 199 coaches to compete in six sports: aquatics, bocce, powerlifting, softball, tennis, and track and field. More than 1,000 volunteers are expected to support the competition.
“Summer Games represents the very best of what Special Olympics Delaware stands for—opportunity, inclusion, and community,” said David Halley, president and CEO of Special Olympics Delaware. “Seeing more than a thousand athletes, coaches, and Unified partners come together is a powerful reminder of the impact this movement has across our state. Our athletes don’t just compete—they lead, inspire, and show us what’s possible when everyone is given the chance to shine.”
Bank of America returns as the presenting sponsor for the event, continuing its long-standing support of Special Olympics Delaware programs and competitions.
“Building a strong community starts with fostering a culture of belonging where everyone can thrive. We are honored to stand alongside the 1,000-plus athletes competing in this year’s Summer Games, as well as the dedicated network of families, coaches, and volunteers who support them,” said Kelly Firment, president of Bank of America Delaware. “Special Olympics Delaware does extraordinary work empowering individuals of all abilities, and we are thrilled to celebrate these athletes and the community that lifts them up.”
Competition begins Friday morning and continues through Saturday afternoon. One of the highlights of the weekend will be the Opening Ceremony at 4 p.m. Friday at the Bob Carpenter Center. The ceremony will be emceed by Matt Janus, a three-time Delaware Sportscaster of the Year recipient, and will feature the traditional parade of athletes and the lighting of the Special Olympics cauldron.
This year’s cauldron will be lit by Jillian Mathews of the Kent Wild Kats, named the 2026 Outstanding Athlete of the Year, and Lt. Angie Dolan of the New Castle County Police Department, recipient of the 2026 Winnie Spence Torch Runner of the Year award.
The ceremonial “Flame of Hope” will arrive at the Opening Ceremony following the 40th Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Delaware. Law enforcement officers from across the state will carry the torch more than 100 miles before it reaches the university campus.
In addition to athletic competition, attendees will have access to Olympic Village activities, Healthy Athletes screenings and educational programs throughout the weekend. On Saturday, the organization will also host its Young Athletes Festival on the infield of the university track. The event is designed for children ages 2 to 7 and introduces basic sports skills through age-appropriate activities.
The Summer Games are free and open to the public, and organizers encourage Delaware residents to attend and support the athletes. Volunteers are still being sought and may register through Special Olympics Delaware or sign up at volunteer registration tents during the event.
Additional information, including sport-specific schedules, is available through Special Olympics Delaware.
