In June 2026, the brightest beacon of inclusion is coming to Minnesota!
The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games will bring together 4,000 athletes, 1,500 coaches, 10,000 volunteers and 75,000 fans from all 50 states. Through the power of sports and inclusion, the Special Olympics USA Games will spark a change that transforms lives, communities and the world.
The University of Minnesota and the National Sports Center in Blaine, Minn., will host the 2026 USA Games June 20-26, 2026.
Special Olympics Wisconsin will participate in the 2026 USA Games as Team Wisconsin, a delegation consisting of Athletes, Unified Partners, Youth Leaders, Volunteer Coaches, and Staff. Team Wisconsin will send 81 delegation members, including 56 Athletes and Unified Partners, in 9 sports and the Youth Leadership Experience.
USA Games 2026
FAQ & Nominations Forms
While still several months away, the planning for Team Wisconsin has already begun!
How do I qualify for Team Wisconsin?
Athletes and Unified Partners are eligible for nomination based on their placement at qualifying events. The criteria for each sport may vary based on participation and will be included in the nomination form for each sport. Nominated Athletes and Unified Partners will be invited to Selection camp July 26-27. After that camp, the team will be selected based on a random draw of the nominated Athletes and Unified Partners.
BOCCE
Qualifying Event:
2024 State Bocce Tournament at Fall Games
GOLF
Qualifying Events:
2024 Northern State Golf Tournament
2024 Southern State Golf Tournament
VOLLEYBALL
Qualifying Event:
2024 State Volleyball Tournament
BOWLING
Qualifying Event:
2024 State Bowling Tournament
BASKETBALL – TEAM
Qualifying Event:
2025 State Team Basketball Tournament at Spring Games
SWIMMING
Qualifying Event:
2025 State Swimming Meet at Spring Games
CORNHOLE
Qualifying Event:
2025 State Cornhole Tournament at Summer Games
POWERLIFTING
Qualifying Event:
2025 State Powerlifting Meet at Summer Games
TRACK & FIELD (ATHLETICS)
Qualifying Event:
2025 State Track & Field Meet at Summer Games
Qualified Nominated Athletes and Unified Partners will attend Selection Camp July 26-27, 2025 where Athletes and Unified Partners are evaluated and ultimately selected by random draw.
How do I become a coach for Team Wisconsin?
Coaches play a key role in the success of the delegation and for the athlete experience. We encourage any coach who is qualified to apply, regardless of USA Games or National Invitational coaching experience. Team Wisconsin is also planning on taking 1 Athlete-As-Coach. Athlete Coaches need to be certified as an Athlete- As-Coach and have experience coaching as part of their Local Program.
Are there any fees for participation?
No fees are required, however all attendees (athletes, coaches, and support staff) will be responsible for fundraising. More information to come on that process.
