The 2022 Special Olympics USA Games will be held June 5-12 in Orlando, Florida. Special Olympics Vermont is proud to be represented at USA Games by a 15-person delegation including six athletes, coaches, Unified Partners, and staff.
The six athletes representing Vermont are:
Mathew Benn of BeeBe Plain, competing in golf
Julia Bruner of Hyde Park, competing in swimming
Pascal Deppisch of Danville, competing in track & field
Marcus DeSmit of Vergennes, competing in swimming
Jennifer Mayfield of Hartland, competing in golf
Chelsea Waldner of St. Johnsbury, competing in track & field
To qualify for consideration as a competitor at Special Olympics USA or World Games, athletes must meet several requirements. They must have earned a gold or silver medal at a state level competition, be able to train and travel independently, and a be willing to represent themselves, their local program, and the Special Olympics Vermont delegation with competence and pride at the Games.
Vermont will also be represented by three individuals from Brattleboro High School. Athlete, Bobby Petrie, Unified Partner, Alex (Gabe) Raymond, and Coach, Tyler Boone, will be participating in the Youth Leadership Experience at USA Games. This immersive experience will involve Unified pairs and youth leaders in a variety of volunteer roles across functional areas, while supporting their state program delegation. This experience will provide the tools for these young people to become more deeply connected to the Special Olympics movement as committed volunteers, teammates, and friends for life.
“We can’t wait for this incredible team of athletes, coaches, and partners to represent Vermont at the USA Games,” says Missy Siner Shea, President and CEO of Special Olympics Vermont. “What an amazing experience and learning opportunity. These athletes have been training hard – many of them for several years – to prepare to compete on the national stage. I know they will make us proud - they already have.”
The Special Olympics USA Games, which is hosted every four years, will unite more than 5,500 athletes and coaches from all 50 states and the Caribbean. Over 10,000 volunteers will fill more than 20,000 volunteer shifts during the week. Over 125,000 family members, friends and spectators will witness the inspiring athletic accomplishments in 19 Olympic-style team and individual sports and more than 30 events. It all takes place at world-class venues, centered at ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Resort.
Traveling to a nationwide event takes tremendous resources. On average, it costs $2,500 to send one delegate to USA Games. Team Vermont has been working hard to fundraise to support thetrip to Orlando and needs additional support. If you would like to learn more about the team, and donate, please visit: www.specialolympicsvermont.org/usagames.
- ### -
About USA Games
The 2022 Special Olympics USA Games is scheduled for June 5-12, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. Jersey Mike’s Subs is the Presenting Partner and hosted by Disney. During this magical week, more than 5,500 athletes and coaches from all 50 states and the Caribbean will travel to Florida to unite in one of the country’s most cherished sporting events. The USA Games is hosted once every four years and showcases 19 Olympic-style team and individual sports and 30 events throughout the week including forums and VIP receptions. Website: www.2022usagames.org.
About Special Olympics Vermont
Special Olympics Vermont is part of a global movement that works year-round to foster the inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities by using the power of sport to showcase their gifts and abilities. For more information, visit www.specialolympicsvermont.org.