MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. ― Team New Hampshire has officially begun its journey at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, joining thousands of athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across the country for one of the largest sporting events in the nation for people with intellectual disabilities.
There are even a few participants from the Lakes Region performing on the Winnipesaukee Warriors, including Darren Brown, Alicia Chapman and Jimmy Johnson.
The Games officially kicked off Saturday night with a spectacular Opening Ceremonies celebration at Huntington Bank Stadium, where Team New Hampshire proudly marched alongside delegations from across the country.
Today, athletes participated in practices, divisioning events, and qualifying competitions that help ensure fair and competitive matchups throughout the week. Competition officially began Monday across seven sports represented by Team New Hampshire: athletics, bocce, bowling, golf, powerlifting, swimming, and tennis.
The first Team New Hampshire awards are expected to be presented on Tuesday, with competition continuing through Friday.
Team New Hampshire's delegation includes 39 athletes, coaches, and Unified partners representing communities throughout the Granite State. For many athletes, being at the USA Games represents years of training, dedication, and perseverance, as well as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete on a national stage.
For more information, visit sonh.org.
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