Darrien Smith

Waterbury, CT

Darrien Smith is a bowling coach who will be going to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games with Team Connecticut. Darrien resides in Waterbury and works at Ability Beyond as a Resident Manager. Darrien has been involved with Special Olympics Connecticut for 18 years and has coached Unified basketball, bowling, cross-country skiing, golf, and swimming. He’s also been the DJ at Special Olympics dances!

Darien feels proudest when he’s watching his athletes achieve their goals and enjoy life!

Darrien played football and basketball in high school and has also coached a youth Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) boys basketball team. 

In his free time, he loves to cook and host parties. Darrien admires his parents, Oliver and Patricia, since they were always there and never gave up on him. He also admires Alanna Licursi, who offered him the opportunity to get involved in Special Olympics.

Darrien is excited to coach the athletes who will compete in bowling at the 2026 USA Games. To prepare, he’s been studying new strategies for success and talking with other coaches to get their input and advice.