Team New York is back home after a successful showing at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, bringing home 54 medals following a week of competition in Minneapolis.
The Games, held June 20-26, brought together approximately 3,000 athletes and 1,500 coaches from all 50 states to compete in 16 team and individual sports. More than 10,000 volunteers helped support the event, which was hosted at the University of Minnesota and venues throughout the Minneapolis-St. Paul area and drew an estimated 75,000 spectators.
New York’s delegation included 82 athletes and Unified partners who represented the state on the national stage. Throughout the week, competitors took part in athletic events, opening and closing ceremonies, and activities celebrating inclusion and sportsmanship.
Team New York finished the Games with 54 medals, including more than half being gold medals, following strong performances across multiple sports.
“The USA Games celebrate the incredible abilities of our athletes and the power of inclusion,” said Stacey Hengsterman, president and CEO of Special Olympics New York. “Team New York represented our state with tremendous pride throughout the week. While we’re thrilled to celebrate their success on the fields of play, we’re even more excited about the confidence they gained, the friendships they built, and the unforgettable memories they created. We couldn’t be more proud of everything they accomplished.”
The biennial Special Olympics USA Games are among the nation’s largest sporting events for athletes with intellectual disabilities and serve as a celebration of athletic achievement, inclusion, and community.
