UTICA, N.Y. — The Special Olympics New York State Summer Games brought together more than 1,200 athletes and coaches from across the state in Oneida County this weekend.
Utica University served as the main hub for the 2026 games, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies as well as most competitions.
Athletes competed in basketball, powerlifting, swimming, tennis, track and field, and volleyball at venues across Utica. The Special Olympics are about more than just competition, though.
“They are all about inclusion. We have unified teams that have people without special needs that play with people with special needs. It’s all just about inclusion and heart. The athletes are very, very involved. They love their sports, so it’s just a big overall kind of community,” said Special Olympics venue captain Justin Piersall.
This year’s games also included a new Health Fest, which offered free health screenings for athletes and prospective participants.
The Special Olympics New York State Summer Games brought together more than 1,200 athletes and coaches from across the state in Oneida County this weekend.