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.