Team Florida Athletes Celebrate Opening of Special Olympics USA Games

By the Special Olympics Florida All-Access Team

Special Olympics Florida Athlete Leaders Malcom Harris-Gowdie, Sara Parker, and Stephen Lepore form the All-Access Team reporting from the Special Olympics USA Games. They filed this piece on the celebratory send-off and first two days of the Games.

Special Olympics Florida athletes received an enthusiastic send-off from Orlando International Airport as they departed on June 19, for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.

Supporters cheered on Team Florida competitors as they headed off to compete in 16 sports, including athletics, basketball, bowling, competitive cheer, flag football, gymnastics, softball, swimming, volleyball, and more. The excitement continued at the Opening Ceremonies at Huntington Bank Stadium on June 20. More than 3,000 athletes from across the country participated in the Parade of Athletes. Musical performances by Demi Lovato and Jon Batiste helped make the event a memorable celebration. Team Florida stood out with its flamingo and palm tree-themed gear, creating a colorful display inside the stadium.

On the first day of competition, we covered bocce and interviewed two Team Florida coaches and several athletes. They shared their stories and discussed how they prepare to compete at the highest level. We also visited with Team Florida soccer athletes, who were energized and focused on bringing home a gold medal.

The day concluded with a conversation with Maria Shriver, who met with Athlete Leaders and shared insights from her long career in journalism and broadcasting.

Stay tuned for more Team Florida coverage and updates from the Special Olympics USA Games throughout the week in the Twin Cities.

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