Athlete Reporter Lily Goodfellow reports from Team Illinois Training Camp, capturing how athletes are preparing for the national stage this June.
By Lily Goodfellow
Team Illinois prepared for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota with a training camp in Bloomington-Normal this past weekend. Athletes from around the state practiced in various locations around the area, from high schools to exercise facilities, and a local bowling alley. The athletes and coaches had a chance to meet their teammates and fellow competitors and get to know each other throughout the weekend.
Courtney Kreuger is competing in the USA Games this June in powerlifting. She has been participating in Special Olympics for more than 15 years. She didn’t know about Special Olympics Illinois until one of her best friends told her about it and invited her to an athletics event. “I loved it and I joined and I never looked back.” Courtney has competed in track and field, powerlifting, basketball, bowling, and tennis. When asked which is her favorite, Courtney said “my number one would probably be powerlifting. I just like to lift weights and try to get stronger with my upper body.”
Powerlifting Athlete Courtney Kreuger
Courtney has had the same coach for both athletics and powerlifting (and all of the other sports in her area) for the past 12 years, Matt Nelson. Matt is serving as the head athletics coach for Team Illinois at the USA Games, but he continues to train Courtney in powerlifting at least three days a week. “He’s awesome. We train pretty hard and he’s a great coach.”
Matt started coaching in 2010 after he contacted Special Olympics Illinois to find a way to give back and “help the world.” He says what he likes best about coaching “is being able to take the skillset that I have – I know how to do things properly – and then getting to see my athletes learn how to do it … and see them feel the joy and accomplishment when they do their best.” He thinks it’s pretty great to see them get some medals too.
Athletics Coach Matt Nelson & Lily Goodfellow
Matt served as the assistant athletics coach at the 2018 and 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, and his biggest hope is to see the Illinois athletes competing in the 4×400-meter relay take home the gold. “We are the defending USA Games champions in that event. We won first place in Orlando in 2022, on the very last day in the very last race.” He also hopes to see Courtney medal in the USA Games.
“Courtney is doing amazing. She’s already set three PRs in less than five months in training. She’s killing it.” Matt said Courtney may deadlift 230-240 pounds at the USA Games.
Debbie Stewart knows what it feels like to win golds. She’s won more than 110 of them. Debbie has been competing in Special Olympics Illinois for 53 years. During that time, she has competed in athletics, soccer, softball, volleyball, swimming, basketball, bocce, and bowling. She continues to compete in athletics and bowling, and she will be representing Illinois on the bowling team. Her current medal count is 299. She is hoping to get number 300 in her upcoming athletics meet and hang it alongside all of her medals in a special cabinet her dad built for her.
Head gymnastics coach Glenn Marks has also been involved with Special Olympics Illinois for more than 50 years. He has coached at numerous Special Olympics World and USA Games and loves to see how the athletes do in their competitions and achieve their goals. Glenn believes the four Illinois athletes who will be competing in gymnastics are going “to do really well. They have a lot of motivation and the excitement is there.”
Lily Goodfellow & Gymnastics Coach Glen Marks
Powerlifter Ryan Farrar is motivated, too. He has competed in Special Olympics Illinois for more than 14 years. In 2011, he went into a workshop in his local town and asked about how to get involved in Special Olympics. “I’m really competitive. I love doing it. It keeps me busy.” Ryan stays busy competing in bowling, basketball, flag football, and powerlifting. Powerlifting and basketball are his favorites, because he feels they are the most competitive sports. His latest motivation is to repeat 300 pounds in the deadlift, which he did for the first time in training.
Like most of the Team Illinois athletes, Ryan is looking forward to making new friends and competing at the Special Olympics USA Games.
Training Camp was just the beginning for building relationships and bonding with other teammates and coaches. Everyone is looking forward to Minneapolis in June when they can walk together into the Opening Ceremonies representing both their sport and their state.
What a week in Springfield! Our Team Illinois delegation heading to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games was recognized on the House floor at the Illinois State Capitol. This was a meaningful moment for our athletes, coaches, and the entire Special Olympics Illinois community.
Over the course of two days, our delegation met with legislators to advocate for the neurodiverse community, from advancing safer schools through anti-bullying efforts and supporting health initiatives that promote early intervention, to strengthening workforce programs that expand access to gainful employment.
We were also proud to attend the Illinois Legislative Neurodiversity Caucus Autism Awareness Reception. There is a growing coalition committed to this work and to the individuals and families it serves. We are proud to be a core member of this caucus!
Thank you to Senate President Don Harmon, Senator Elgie Sims Jr., Senator Meg Cappel, Represenative Natalie Manley, Representative Suzanne Ness, Representative Anna Moeller, Representative Sharon Chung, Representative Nicolle See Grasse, Representative Justin Cochran, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and many others for taking the time to meet with our delegation. Their engagement and leadership moves this work forward.
A special thank you to Representative Matt Hanson for sponsoring the Resolution, welcoming Team Illinois to the Capitol, and continuing to be a true champion for Special Olympics athletes and families.
And thank you to Senator Meg Cappel and Representative Natalie Manley, Co-Chairs of the Illinois Legislative Neurodiversity Caucus, for their transformative leadership and continued commitment to advancing opportunities for the neurodiverse community.
Investing in these programs is how we create stronger, healthier, and more inclusive communities. And this week was a clear reminder of what’s possible when that commitment is shared. View additional photos.
In honor of National Volunteer Month this April, Special Olympics Illinois is proud to spotlight two remarkable Region C Key Volunteers, Sergio and Noemi Munoz, whose dedication has made a lasting impact over the past 15 years.
The Munozes recall their first day volunteering at an event hosted at North Central College in Naperville. “A coworker invited us to help, and we saw it as a meaningful way to give back to the community,” says Sergio. What started as a single day quickly turned into a long-standing commitment that continues to grow.
From the beginning, they have been active members of the Power Team. “We help set up venues, organize logistics, distribute lunches, assist athletes and families, and help with event breakdown,” the Munozes explain. Over time, they took on leadership roles alongside fellow Key Volunteer Candace, guiding and coordinating the team’s efforts across competitions.
Reflecting on the experience, the Munozes reflect, “It’s really the people who have left the greatest impression. We’ve built lasting connections with families, athletes, and fellow volunteers, and we’ve been inspired by the passion and commitment of everyone involved.” One particularly meaningful moment for them has been participating in the lighting of the cauldron, which they describe as “a powerful symbol of unity and celebration at Special Olympics events.”
Asked what motivates them to continue volunteering year after year, they answer simply: “The athletes. Their joy, determination, and strength are incredible. Being part of an organization that creates these experiences fills us with pride.”
Inclusion is central to their work. “Inclusion means creating opportunities for everyone to participate, belong, and succeed while celebrating differences and recognizing individual strengths,” Noemi says. Sergio adds, “It’s about ensuring all individuals, regardless of background or ability, have the chance to participate, achieve, and feel a sense of accomplishment.”
The Munozes also note the personal impact of their volunteerism. “Through our work with Special Olympics Illinois, we’ve grown closer together, strengthened our compassion, and added joy to our lives,” they say.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, the Munozes’ story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact volunteers can have, not only on the athletes and communities they serve but also on their own lives.
Siendo la Diferencia: El legado de voluntariado de los Muñoz
En honor al Mes Nacional del Voluntariado este abril, Special Olympics Illinois se enorgullece en destacar a dos voluntarios clave excepcionales de la Región C, Sergio y Noemí Muñoz, cuya dedicación ha dejado un impacto duradero durante los últimos 15 años.
Los Muñoz recuerdan su primer día como voluntarios en un evento realizado en North Central College en Naperville. “Un compañero de trabajo nos invitó a ayudar, y lo vimos como una manera significativa de retribuir a la comunidad”, comenta Sergio. Lo que comenzó como un solo día se convirtió rápidamente en un compromiso a largo plazo que continúa creciendo.
Desde el inicio, han sido miembros activos del Power Team. “Ayudamos a preparar los espacios, organizar la logística, distribuir almuerzos, asistir a los atletas y sus familias, y colaborar con el desmontaje de los eventos”, explican los Muñoz. Con el tiempo, asumieron roles de liderazgo junto a la también voluntaria clave Candace, guiando y coordinando los esfuerzos del equipo en diversas competencias.
Al reflexionar sobre su experiencia, los Muñoz comparten: “Son realmente las personas quienes han dejado la mayor huella en nosotros. Hemos construido relaciones duraderas con familias, atletas y otros voluntarios, y nos ha inspirado la pasión y el compromiso de todos los involucrados.” Un momento especialmente significativo para ellos ha sido participar en el encendido del pebetero, que describen como “un poderoso símbolo de unidad y celebración en los eventos de Special Olympics.”
Cuando se les pregunta qué los motiva a seguir siendo voluntarios año tras año, responden con sencillez: “Los atletas. Su alegría, determinación y fortaleza son increíbles. Ser parte de una organización que crea estas experiencias nos llena de orgullo.”
La inclusión es fundamental en su labor. “La inclusión significa crear oportunidades para que todos puedan participar, pertenecer y tener éxito, celebrando las diferencias y reconociendo las fortalezas individuales”, dice Noemí. Sergio añade: “Se trata de asegurar que todas las personas, sin importar su origen o habilidades, tengan la oportunidad de participar, lograr metas y sentirse realizadas.”
Los Muñoz también destacan el impacto personal de su voluntariado. “A través de nuestro trabajo con Special Olympics Illinois, nos hemos acercado más como pareja, hemos fortalecido nuestra compasión y hemos añadido alegría a nuestras vidas”, señalan.
Al celebrar el Mes Nacional del Voluntariado, la historia de los Muñoz es un poderoso recordatorio del impacto que los voluntarios pueden tener, no solo en los atletas y las comunidades a las que sirven, sino también en sus propias vidas.
For eight weeks last fall, athletes across the country logged their workouts, tracked healthy habits, and pushed themselves toward better fitness through the SONA Move Challenge. Among thousands of participants, one name rose to the top: Melanie Harwood, a 2026 Special Olympics USA Games Team Illinois swimming athlete from Region B, who finished first in Illinois and fourth in the nation with an incredible 336,759 points.
For Melanie, the challenge wasn’t just about competition, it was about preparation and personal growth. “I wanted to get fitter for USA Games. It made me more aware of what I could do better for my health,” she shared. As a server in a senior living home, she stays active on the job, and her workplace community has become one of her biggest cheer squads. “The residents and staff are very encouraging … They really enjoy watching the videos my parents take and are looking forward to seeing the videos from nationals.”
Building Healthy Habits Through SONA Move
The SONA Move Challenge follows the Fit 5 + Healthy Minds model, encouraging participants to stay active, eat well, hydrate, and practice mental wellness. Melanie embraced the structure, and the accountability.
She said the challenge helped her recognize one habit in particular: “It made me more aware of how much water I needed to drink.” The revamped Special Olympics fitness app also played a big role in keeping her motivated. “Seeing my position on the leaderboard helped challenge me to do better.”
Not everything came easily. “The hardest part was making sure I ate enough fruits and vegetables every day, but I really did enjoy them,” she smiled. Melanie stayed committed, proving exactly why the SONA Move Challenge is such a powerful tool for building lifelong wellness.
Training for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games
Melanie will compete in the 200-meter freestyle, 200-meter individual medley, and a freestyle swimming relay at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Her training is already well underway, and she credits both SONA Move and her Fitbit for helping her stay on track.
As June approaches, Melanie’s anticipation is building. “I am very excited and looking forward to meeting athletes from all the different states at [the] USA Games,” she says.
Celebrating Health, Community, and Confidence
Melanie’s success in the SONA Move Challenge is a testament to the power of accessible health programming, and the strength of athletes who embrace it. The challenge fosters community, accountability, and positive mental health, all while helping athletes prepare for the sports they love.
Her journey is a reminder of what’s possible when athletes are supported with the right tools, encouragement, and opportunities to grow.
Special Olympics Illinois will be cheering loudly for Melanie this June, and if her SONA Move performance is any indication, she’s just getting started.
As I reflect on these early months of the year, I am struck by how many meaningful moments are being created not only on the field of play, but in classrooms, meetings, and spaces where inclusion is shaped and strengthened across Illinois.
One of those moments took place recently at Heartland Community College, where we hosted the second training of our Athlete Leadership University. More than 40 athletes came together to build skills, confidence, and leadership capacity that extends well beyond Special Olympics Illinois. Experiences like Athlete Leadership University reinforce that inclusion is an active commitment. It means creating pathways for athletes to grow, lead, and influence the communities around them.
That same sense of progress was evident at the inaugural meeting of the Illinois Legislative Neurodivergent Caucus, launched by Representative Manley and Senator Cappel. We were honored to be invited to speak at this first gathering, which encouraged meaningful dialogue about the issues facing our athletes and others across the state. Bringing together policymakers, advocates, and people with lived experience is an important step toward more inclusive systems and solutions.
We are also seeing momentum take shape through thoughtful legislative conversations. House Bill 4284 focuses on updating Illinois state law to reflect person-first language rather than disability-first language. This shift recognizes people before labels and helps reinforce dignity and respect across systems. Representative Cochran, the chief sponsor of the bill, joined a recent Family Leadership Team meeting to share more about its intent and impact.
Just days later, a powerful moment occurred in Springfield. Our board member, coach, and athlete, Taylor Sweeting, testified in support of House Bill 4284 before a House Committee on March 19. We believe Taylor may be the first Special Olympics Illinois athlete to testify before a House Committee, an important milestone for our movement. His testimony was supported by Mo Khan, who introduced Taylor to Representative Cochran and worked closely with him to prepare his remarks. Taylor’s voice was a clear reminder that inclusion is strongest when those most impacted are part of the conversation.
Another piece of legislation we are watching is House Bill 5704, introduced by Representative Chung, which seeks $1 million in financial support for Special Olympics Illinois. Representative Chung is currently working to build bipartisan support by securing additional co-sponsors. If this effort resonates with you, reaching out to your state representative to encourage their support can play an important role in helping this bill move forward and in sustaining opportunities for our athletes statewide.
Looking ahead, excitement continues to build for the Special Olympics USA Games. Our Team Illinois 80-person delegation, including athletes, Unified partners, and coaches, and support staff, is set and preparing for an unforgettable experience. Thank you to everyone who supported the Jersey Mike’s Month of Giving campaign to send Team Illinois to the Games. Your generosity helps ensure our athletes have the resources they need to compete, represent our state, and shine on a national stage.
Andin the months ahead, we will have opportunities to come together to celebrate our Team Illinois delegation. Each of these moments serves as an important reminder of the light our athletes bring to their communities and of the work still ahead to ensure everyone has the opportunity to belong.
Thank you for standing with us. Every training, conversation, and shared experience helps create more opportunities for inclusion and ensures that those moments continue to matter.
Pete Beale DelVecchio President and CEOSpecial Olympics Illinois
Now that the Team Illinois delegation is officially complete, the anticipation is growing as athletes prepare for their moment in Minneapolis from June 20-26.
Illinois will be proudly represented by 80 delegates, including athletes, Unified partners, coaches, youth leaders, and staff, competing across eight sports. This delegation represents communities from across the state and reflects the depth of talent, commitment, and spirit within Special Olympics Illinois.
From seasoned competitors to first-time Special Olympics USA Games athletes, Team Illinois embodies what it means to train with purpose, compete with heart, and lead with courage.
With the delegation finalized and the athletes ready to compete, meet the individuals whose journeys led them to represent Illinois on the national stage.
Athletics
Kelsey Ferguson (Normal) – Reached state in both track & field and snowshoeing since joining in 2023.
Matthew Friedman (Hinsdale) – A numbers whiz who tracks every stat from over a decade in Special Olympics sports.
Tim McDonough (Chicago) – A nearly 20-year athlete who values teamwork and encouragement as much as results.
Sam Wagner (Woodridge) – Known for her sportsmanship and dedication across multiple sports year-round.
Bocce
Tommie Knudsen (Normal) – Proud of qualifying for state and celebrating teamwork.
Tina Mango (Chicago) – A longtime athlete who values resilience and friendship.
Randy Mertes (Oswego) – Excited for his first Special Olympics USA Games experience.
April Papke (Naperville) – A multi-sport athlete for more than a decade who always cheers for everyone.
Bowling
Jordan Derossett (Belleville) – A mentor to other athletes with pride in his community.
Sean Hatch (Waukegan) – Loves the team experience and trying new sports.
Lizzi Jorgensen (Oak Forest) – Earned a sportsmanship award and bowls with joy.
Yadhira Macias (Beach Park) – Builds confidence and independence through competition.
Scott Maess (Rock Island) – Values helping others and representing Illinois.
Katie Maynard (Danville) – Joy in participating with a strong sense of community.
Julian Rivera (Chicago) – A regional finalist who bowls in local leagues.
Debbie Stewart (Rockford) – A lifelong athlete known for perseverance and dedication.
Gymnastics
Evie Diem (Elgin) – Competes across four sports and always gives her best.
Katie O’Neill (Elmhurst) – An Athlete Leader proud of learning new skills.
Mary Roman (Schaumburg) – Trained for 10 years and thrives in competition.
Alexis Winegard (Vernon Hills) – A 22-year athlete who values teamwork and progress.
Powerlifting
Sheridan Coleman (Carbondale) – Trains with focus and determination.
Ryan Farrar (Lawrenceville) – Excited to represent Illinois at his first Special Olympics USA Games.
James Foster (Kinderhook) – Lives by the Athlete Oath and spreads positivity.
Courtney Krueger (Evanston) – A strong leader and spokesperson.
Swimming
John Cleveland (Marion) – A 25-year athlete competing nationally for the first time.
Val Densler (Carbondale) – A state gold medalist and Athlete Leader.
Melanie Harwood (Libertyville) – A dedicated competitor since 1994.
Drew Kirkman (Morris) – Qualified for Summer Games every year of participation.
Christine Leverenz (Oak Lawn) – Longtime swimmer who values friendship.
Ryan Nash (Joliet) – Returned to swimming strong after spinal surgery.
Amanda Propheter (Geneva) – A former volunteer turned athlete and advocate.
Rocky Rochlitz (Huntley) – Proud of his growth in the pool.
Unified Basketball
Anthony Boyce (Bradley) – Loves the energy of the crowd and recently won regional gold.
Josh Danta (Bourbonnais) – Gained confidence and leadership through Unified basketball.
Osaze Ikponmwosa (Tinley Park) – A team captain proud of regional titles and youth leader.
Jeremiah Jones (Bourbonnais) – Found belonging and confidence through teamwork.
Zyire McCoffin (Bourbonnais) – Focused on personal growth and team goals.
Unified Basketball Partners
Grayden Alexander (Tinley Park) – A leader in building Unified culture through multiple sports.
Georgia Kohl (Bourbonnais) – State championship teammate and passionate inclusion advocate.
Calvin Kohl (Bourbonnais) – Values leadership and inclusion learned through Unified play.
Sam LaMore (Bourbonnais) – A passion for Unified programming who champions belonging.
Isabelle Trudeau (Bourbonnais) – Active in Unified sports and passionate about inclusion.
Unified Volleyball
Travis Brady (Bloomington) – A 20-year Special Olympics veteran reaching his first national Games.
Becca Gehle (Palos Hills) – Considers Special Olympics a major part of her life.
David Mathews‑Dedmond (Sycamore) – A dependable teammate who brings positivity.
James Moustis (Frankfort) – A multi‑sport athlete focused on team support.
Matthew Reczek (Mokena) – Balances multiple competitions with teamwork first.
Taylor Sweeting (Chatham) – Team manager and inclusion leader.
Marium Wahid (Palos Hills) – Loves volleyball and building confidence on and off the court.
Unified Volleyball Partners
Dillon Buschmann (Joliet) – Overcame cancer and returned to Unified competition.
Mia DiGiacomo (Oak Lawn) – Builds inclusive spaces as an occupational therapist.
Todd Mallo (Orland Park) – A Unified partner since 2001.
Maggie Ryan (Chicago) – Brings coaching experience to Unified play.
Arik Sorensen (Joliet) – A longtime volunteer who found confidence through service.
Shannon Steinbis-Vanatta (Sycamore) – A 30-year Special Olympics advocate.
Youth Leaders
Ethan Jimenez (Poplar Grove) – A Unified sports leader growing his voice and confidence.
Annabella Torres (Poplar Grove) – Champions inclusion through leadership and service.
