Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series

On this episode of Live From Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we’re reporting on location from Huntington Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota during the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics USA Games. From our press box vantage point, we capture the joy, pride, and inclusion that define the Games. As our friend Timothy Shriver reminds us, this celebration reflects the very best of America’s spirit — and no one works harder than Special Olympics athletes. This is the Land of Inclusion. Special Olympics Country. Join our Mother‑Son Podcast Team for real‑time commentary and behind‑the‑scenes highlights from America's largest inclusion celebration of ability. Follow along on the Road to the 2026 USA Games and be part of the Movement. Episode ShowNotes & Links: Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org  🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1 ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/Give or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About Our Team: Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness. Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish. Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy. The post Live From 2026USAGames Ep.6: Opening Ceremony | Ep.851 first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On this heartfelt episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes Cathy O’Neill, whose daughter Katie will compete in Gymnastics for Team Illinois at the 2026 USA Games. Cathy shares what it means to be part of her athlete’s support system, how her family prepares for the excitement of Minnesota hosting the Games, and the emotional moments that have shaped their journey. She also discusses the importance of coach–family relationships, how she helps Katie manage nerves, and the growth she’s witnessed as her daughter trains for the national stage. Cathy’s perspective beautifully captures the love, sacrifice, and pride that families bring to the Special Olympics movement. Episode ShowNotes & Links: Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store. 👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org  🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1 ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About Our Team: Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness. Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish. Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy. The post Road To 2026USAGames: The Family Perspective: Love, Support, and the Journey to the USA Games first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski spotlights the essential behind‑the‑scenes work that brings the Special Olympics movement to life. We sit down with Katelin Zandi, a dedicated Team Illinois staff member whose communications work helps shape how athletes, families, and fans experience the 2026 USA Games. Katelin shares how she uses storytelling, media coordination, and on‑site communications to elevate athlete voices and ensure Team Illinois is seen, heard, and celebrated. She reflects on the responsibility of capturing authentic moments, the joy of highlighting athlete achievements, and the teamwork required to keep information flowing during such a massive event. This episode offers a rare look at the people who make the Games run smoothly — the communicators, organizers, and connectors who help bring inclusion to the world. Episode ShowNotes & Links: Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store. 👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org  🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1 ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About Our Team: Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness. Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish. Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy. The post Road To 2026USAGames: Communications, Storytelling, and the Heart of Team Illinois first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Matt Corso, Head Coach for Team Illinois Bowling, to explore the deep impact coaches have on athletes preparing for the 2026 USA Games. Matt opens up about his coaching philosophy, the intentional preparation that goes into a national competition, and how he recognizes when an athlete needs extra support — mentally, emotionally, or physically. He also reflects on the importance of family partnerships, the pressure of competing on a national stage, and the memorable moments that remind him why inclusion matters. This conversation shines a light on the heart, patience, and purpose behind every great coach. Episode ShowNotes & Links: Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store. 👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org  🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1 ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About Our Team: Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness. Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish. Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy. The post Road To 2026USAGames: The Coach’s Perspective: Building a Support System with Heart first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we spotlight a groundbreaking moment in USA Games history: the debut of Unified Cornhole. Representing Special Olympics Rhode Island, Unified partner Sharon Laliberte shares what it means to compete in a sport built on teamwork, trust, and inclusion. Sharon reflects on the power of Unified Sports, the friendships formed through competition, and the pride of helping introduce a new event to the national stage. Her story shows how inclusion isn’t just a value — it’s a way of competing, connecting, and creating opportunities for athletes everywhere. Episode ShowNotes & Links: Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store. 👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org  🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1 ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About Our Team: Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness. Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish. Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy. The post Road To 2026USAGames: Sharon Laliberte – Unified Cornhole, SO Rhode Island first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we dive into the pool with Team Illinois swimmer Val Densler, whose determination is as strong as her stroke. In this conversation, Val opens up about her training routine, the challenges she’s overcome, and the motivation that keeps her pushing toward Minnesota. Her story is a powerful reminder that every lap, every practice, and every moment of effort brings her one step closer to the USA Games. Val’s journey shows what it means to stay committed, stay focused, and stay inspired on the road to competition. Episode ShowNotes & Links: Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store. 👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org  🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1 ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About Our Team: About Our Team: Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness. Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish. Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy. The post Road To 2026USAGames: Val Densler — Swimming, Team Illinois first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we flip over to the gymnastics floor with Katie O’Neill, a Team Illinois athlete whose strength, grace, and discipline shine through every routine. Katie shares how she prepares mentally and physically for competition, the setbacks that have shaped her resilience, and the goals she’s aiming for as she heads to Minnesota. Her story is a testament to courage — the courage to try, to fall, to get back up, and to keep reaching for something bigger. Tune in to learn more about Katie’s training focus and her message to fans. Episode ShowNotes & Links: Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store. 👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org  🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1 ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About Our Team: Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness. Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish. Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy. The post Road To 2026USAGames: Katie O’Neill — Gymnastics, Team Illinois first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On episode 4 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we dive into the heart of what powers every Special Olympics athlete: their support system. From coaches who guide athletes toward the national stage to families who cheer through every high and low, this episode highlights the people who make the journey possible. You’ll hear from Coach Matt Corso of Team Illinois Bowling and family member Cathy O’Neill, whose daughter Katie is competing in Gymnastics, as well as Team Illinois staff member Katelin Zandi who powerfully shares how inclusion doesn’t see disability. Together, they reveal how encouragement, partnership, and community shape the road to the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. Chapters: 0:00 – Episode Intro - Welcome to Episode 4 and today’s theme: the support systems behind every athlete. 2:00 – Coach Interview: Matt Corso (Team Illinois Bowling) - Coach Matt shares his coaching philosophy, how he prepares athletes for USA Games, recognizing athlete struggles, partnering with families, managing pressure, and what inclusion means to him. 29:30 – Family Interview: Cathy O’Neill (Parent of Team Illinois Gymnastics Athlete) - Cathy reflects on being part of her daughter Katie’s support system, the excitement of Minnesota hosting, daily encouragement at home, emotional moments, navigating nerves, celebrating growth, and the meaning of inclusion. 1:25:00 – Community Impact: Katelin Zandi (Team Illinois Staff) - Katelin discusses her role supporting athletes, the power of local programs, Midwest pride, what a strong support system looks like from a staff perspective, and the long‑term legacy of the Games. Jump to: Staff Interview 1:59:00 – Episode Wrap‑Up & Outro - A reflection on the power of support systems and how they shape the Special Olympics movement. Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support inclusion and amplify the voices of athletes and volunteers. Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store: https://2026specialolympicsusagames.org/visit-the-games/champions-app Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org The post Road To 2026USA Games Ep.4: The Support System first appeared on Special Chronicles.

On episode 3 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, “The Athletes Journey” we explore what it truly takes for Special Olympics athletes to prepare for the 2026 USA Games. Join Daniel Smrokowski, Podcast Host, Special Olympics Illinois Athlete Leader and former Sargent Shriver Global Messenger, as he talks with athletes about their stories of motivation, training routines, overcoming obstacles, support systems, the setbacks that shaped their resilience, and goals driving them toward 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. Tune in as athletes share their stories of motivation, overcoming obstacles, support systems, their biggest dreams for the Games, and defining inclusion on and off the field. Plus we hear a powerful conversation with a unified partner making history with Unified Cornhole at the 2026 USA Games! Chapter Markers: 2:00 - Val Densler, Swimming SO Illinois 12:50 - Katie O’Neill, Gymnastics SO Illinois 33:33 Amanda Propheter, Swimming SO Illinois 54:18 Sharon Laliberte, Unified Cornhole SO Rhode Island Follow the full 10‑part Road to 2026USAGames Series at https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series and remember: Choose To Include. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support inclusion and amplify the voices of athletes and volunteers. Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store: https://2026specialolympicsusagames.org/visit-the-games/champions-app Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: http://2026usagames.org The post Road To 2026USAGames Ep.3: The Athletes’ Journey first appeared on Special Chronicles.

Episode 1 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series kicks off our journey to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games by answering the essential question: What are the USA Games? On this premiere episode, host Daniel Smrokowski is joined today with someone who has been involved with the USA Games since the beginning and helped get these USA National Games started— Greg Epperson, President and Managing Director of Special Olympics North America. We explore the scale, mission, and impact of the Games; the history of Special Olympics; and why the 2026 USA Games matter right now. You’ll hear how this national event brings together thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities and showcases the power of inclusion, competition, and community. This episode sets the stage for the athlete stories, behind‑the‑scenes insights, and powerful conversations coming throughout the series. Chapter Markers:  00:00 - Introduction 2:00 - Opening The Door 16:00 - Mission, Impact & Why It Matters 32:40 - A Brief History of Special Olympics 41:00 - Why 2026 Matters Right Now 56:00 - Closing 📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store. 👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org 🎧Follow the Podcast Series: Visit https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series. The post Road To 2026USA Games Ep.1: What Are The USA Games? first appeared on Special Chronicles.

Ranked #1 for “USA Games” in search results, this landmark 10‑part narrative series from Special Chronicles follows the journey to, through, and beyond the 2026 USA Games in Minneapolis–St. Paul. Through immersive storytelling, on‑site sound, and firsthand voices from athletes, families, coaches, organizers, and Unified partners, the series brings listeners into the heart of the movement. Three Acts • Act 1: The Road to the Games — Why the Games matter and how athletes prepare. • Act 2: Live from the Games — Daily on‑site audio, reactions, and behind‑the‑scenes access. • Act 3: Beyond the Games — Reflections, impact, and the legacy of inclusion. More than event coverage, this is a storytelling series elevating the voices of athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Follow for all‑new weekly episodes June–July 2026. Listen or watch at SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames The post TRAILER: Road to the Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series first appeared on Special Chronicles.