Kristin Cancelliere

Rocky Hill, CT

Dr. Kristin Canciellere is a Unified Sports® partner from Rocky Hill who will participate in softball at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Kristin works as a physical therapist for a Connecticut-based therapy/rehabilitation company. She grew up supporting her aunt, Annette Diachenko, who competed in track and field, and began participating in Special Olympics herself as a member of the New London Wildcats team in 2021.

“Special Olympics has allowed me to find another family I didn’t know I needed. The team allows me to find joy in every moment together and remember that being present can make all  the difference to someone,” says Kristin. 

Kristin’s biggest challenge has been staying connected to Special Olympics and her team, the Wildcats, through her many moves. She’s lived in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts before moving back to Connecticut. Kristin is proud to be a Wildcat - a member of the Special Olympics New London team. “The team, founded by Coach Pete, has relentlessly upheld the true values and priorities that should be seen not only in Special Olympics, but in all communities. There is so much kindness, patience, and love shared between all the players and coaches.” says Kristin. 

Kristin is a competitive athlete who played softball at East Catholic High School in Manchester, CT and throughout college at Arcadia University in Glenside, PA. She has been recognized in the Rocky Hill Athletic Hall of Fame and received the Rachel Carey Spirit Award. She is also a competitive musician who’s competed with the East Catholic Jazz Band and the East Catholic Choral Ensemble. 

After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at Arcadia, she earned a Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Connecticut.  

She is now a proud dog mom of a five-year-old Australian Shepherd and engaged to her former UCONN classmate. She enjoys spending time with family, walking her dog, and playing volleyball and cornhole. 

“Being selected to participate in the USA Games means I have an opportunity to meet even more incredible athletes and partners that share the same passion and love for this community,” says Kristin.