59 Delegates. 5 Sports. One unforgettable journey.
Team Connecticut is heading to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, hosted in Minnesota June 20-26, 2026. They will represent communities across the state with pride, determination, and heart.
This elite team of athletes, Unified partners, and coaches has trained year-round for the opportunity to compete on a national stage - showcasing not just skill, but the power of inclusion.
Team CT by the Numbers
- 59 athletes, Unified partners, and coaches
- 35 towns represented across Connecticut
- Thousands of hours of training and preparation
Help Fund the Journey to USA Games!
Our team has a goal of raising $40,000+ to fuel the journey to 2026 USA Games. Help us make this the experience of a lifetime for this deserving group by donating today!
ESPN Brings the 2026 USA Games to Fans Nationwide
Watch Opening Ceremonies & Competition Live
A range of Special Olympics events, including Opening Ceremonies, track & field, swimming, powerlifting, and flag football will be available to stream on ESPN+ on the ESPN App. Throughout the week, ESPN will stream 48 hours of live competition.
Additional coverage includes ESPN’s presentation of the NFL Network’s Flag Football Unified Game, while ABC will air dedicated preview and review programs. Enhanced by ESPN’s industry-leading in-app features, including multiview, Special Olympics fans can experience the USA Games like never before.
Captain Matthew Butkiewicz Named Final Leg Runner
Congratulations to Capt. Matthew Butkiewicz from New Britain Police Department on his selection as the Connecticut Torch Runner for the Law Enforcement Torch Run® Final Leg for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota!
He will join 50+ dedicated law enforcement officers and athletes from across the country, lighting the torch at the Eternal Flame of Hope in Chicago, IL and splitting the run between an east coast and west coast route. The run culminates during June 20th's Opening Ceremony, lighting the cauldron to officially start the USA Games.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR), initiated in 1981 by Wichita Police Chief Richard LaMunyon, has grown into a worldwide movement, driven by the collective efforts of law enforcement volunteers. Known as Guardians of the Flame, these dedicated individuals join hands with Special Olympics athletes to champion the cause of acceptance and inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Members of LETR also carry the Flame of Hope into Special Olympics events at various levels - local, state, national, and international. This symbolic gesture is more than just a tradition; it represents the unwavering spirit of solidarity and support for Special Olympics programs.
*Pictured with Ray Hadden, who is attending 2026 USA Games as an athlete coach for the bowling team
What Are the Special Olympics USA Games?
The Special Olympics USA Games are one of the largest inclusive sporting events in the country, bringing together thousands of athletes from all 50 states.
Team Connecticut will travel to Minnesota June 20-26 2026 to compete, connect, and represent the strength of our state on a national stage.
But getting there takes more than training - it takes a community.
2026 USA Games Co-Presenting Sponsor
Platinum Sponsors of Team CT
Gold Sponsors of Team CT
Silver Sponsor of Team CT
Bronze Sponsor of Team CT
Transportation Sponsors
Empire Paving, Inc.
Harberton LLC
LAZ Parking
Whelen Engineering Company
Year-Round Partner Sponsors of SOCT
