Dan Gilhuly

Wallingford, CT

Daniel Gilhuly is a Unified Sports® partner from Wallingford who will play on the Unified softball team at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Daniel has been involved in Special Olympics for five years and has practiced and competed in softball, floor hockey, and volleyball. 

“Special Olympics has helped me grow as a communicator and a motivator for the athletes on my team,” says Daniel. 

He also says that his involvement in Special Olympics inspires him to encourage others, lift their spirits, and work with them to achieve a common goal. While Daniel says it can be challenging to communicate effectively during fast-paced games, he has learned patience, adaptability, and how to motivate without putting pressure on an athlete. He is proud to contribute to an environment where everyone feels valued, included, and empowered to succeed. 

Daniel has been a member of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators of Asbestos Workers since 1986. He’s also served as a Board Member for Southern Connecticut State University’s Alumni Association. 

Daniel feels that attending the USA Games will give him a chance to witness how the athletes’ hard work and determination pays off. He looks forward to cheering them on as they compete and to sharing in the excitement, pride, and joy of every moment his team will experience together.