Nearly 60 athletes from Special Olympics Delaware will represent the First State on the national stage at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, taking place June 20–26 in Minnesota. The USA Games will be bringing together more than 3,000 athletes, 1,400 coaches, and 10,000 volunteers from across the country.
Team Delaware athletes will compete in seven sports: Unified softball, Unified Champion Schools (UCS) basketball, bocce, swimming,
“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.”
The Special Olympics USA Games are held every four years and showcase the highest level of Special Olympics competition in the country. Athletes qualify through state and regional competitions and advance to the USA Games based on performance and commitment to training.
Throughout the week-long event, athletes will participate in opening and closing ceremonies, sport competitions, health screenings, and leadership opportunities, while engaging with thousands of volunteers and supporters from across the nation.
“Events like the USA Games demonstrate that sports have the power to change lives and communities,” Halley added. “Our athletes are not just competing—they are ambassadors for inclusion, respect, and opportunity.”
Families, supporters, and fans can follow Team Delaware’s journey throughout the Games on Special Olympics Delaware’s social media platforms and website.
For more information about Special Olympics Delaware and the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, visit www.sode.org.
