Special Olympics Vermont and The Hermitage Club Prepare for 2026 Winter Games

Special Olympics Vermont and the Hermitage Club are looking forward to an exciting 2026 Winter Games, coming up on March 9th & 10th. Over 150 athletes will head to Wilmington to compete in alpine skiing, cross country skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.  

“We are thrilled to welcome athletes, families, coaches, and supporters to the 2026 Winter Games,” said Special Olympics Vermont President and CEO, Sarah McCaffrey. “We are deeply grateful to The Hermitage Club for generously hosting this year’s Games, and to their members for donating the use of their beautiful property. Their partnership and commitment to inclusion make it possible for our athletes to experience the joy of competition and the power of community in an unforgettable setting.”

The Hermitage Club first hosted this marquee event for Special Olympics Vermont in 2024, opening their doors to welcome athletes, coaches and their families for competition, meals and the ever-popular dance!

“The Hermitage Club is honored to host Special Olympics Vermont’s Winter Games for the third consecutive year. These athletes demonstrate extraordinary determination and courage while building confidence, developing skills, and cultivating lifelong friendships. We are grateful to our Members for their continued support in making this inspiring event possible for the athletes and their families,” said Josh DeBottis, Hermitage Club Executive Director and General Manager.

An event of this magnitude needs significant volunteer help and financial support. Volunteer positions include on-mountain opportunities such as mountain guides, starters, gate judges and timers, as well as off-mountain opportunities such as event stagers, meal clerks, and awards support. Anyone who is interested in financially supporting, or joining as a volunteer at the 2026 Winter Games should visit www.specialolympicsvermont.org/wintergames. 

Thank you to our event partners, NBC5, Green Mountain Sound, Mount Snow Grand Summit Resort and Vermont Academy. 

Click Here to view photos of the 2025 Winter Games. Photos courtesy of Special Olympics Vermont

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About Special Olympics Vermont

Special Olympics Vermont provides year-round sports training and competition for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through the power of sports, Special Olympics Vermont changes lives, fostering self-confidence, friendships, and community. Learn more at specialolympicsvermont.org

About The Hermitage Club

The Hermitage Club at Haystack Mountain is a private, family-focused mountain Club located in Wilmington, Vermont. Dedicated to providing best-in-class winter snowsports and recreation experiences in the Northeast, the Club offers exceptional snow quality, uncrowded slopes, and thoughtfully curated amenities. The Hermitage Club fosters a warm and welcoming community where Members build lasting friendships through a shared love of the mountain, the iconic ski lodge, and meaningful outdoor experiences. To learn more or become a Member, please visit: https://www.hermitageclub.com/