Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series

By Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast SeriesSociety & Culture Personal Journals

Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series episodes

June 25 Road To 2026USAGames: The Coach’s Perspective: Building a Support System with Heart
On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Matt Corso, Head Coach for Team Illinois Bowling, to explore the deep impact coaches have on athletes preparing for the 2026 USA Games. Matt opens up about his coaching philosophy, the intentional preparation that goes into a national competition, and how he recognizes when an athlete needs extra support — mentally, emotionally, or physically.
He also reflects on the importance of family partnerships, the pressure of competing on a national stage, and the memorable moments that remind him why inclusion matters. This conversation shines a light on the heart, patience, and purpose behind every great coach.
Episode ShowNotes & Links:
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.
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org
🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod
⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts
📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1
❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus
👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch
📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials
📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter
Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
About Our Team:
Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice.
Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness.
Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish.
Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy.
The post Road To 2026USAGames: The Coach’s Perspective: Building a Support System with Heart first appeared on Special Chronicles.
27 min
June 24 Road To 2026USAGames: Sharon Laliberte – Unified Cornhole, SO Rhode Island
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we spotlight a groundbreaking moment in USA Games history: the debut of Unified Cornhole. Representing Special Olympics Rhode Island, Unified partner Sharon Laliberte shares what it means to compete in a sport built on teamwork, trust, and inclusion.
Sharon reflects on the power of Unified Sports, the friendships formed through competition, and the pride of helping introduce a new event to the national stage. Her story shows how inclusion isn’t just a value — it’s a way of competing, connecting, and creating opportunities for athletes everywhere.
Episode ShowNotes & Links:
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.
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org
🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod
⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts
📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1
❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus
👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch
📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials
📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter
Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
About Our Team:
Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice.
Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness.
Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish.
Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy.
The post Road To 2026USAGames: Sharon Laliberte – Unified Cornhole, SO Rhode Island first appeared on Special Chronicles.
40 min
June 23 Road To 2026USAGames: Amanda Propheter — Swimming, Team Illinois
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we return to the water with Amanda Propheter, a swimmer whose positivity and drive ripple through every practice. Amanda talks about the support system that lifts her up, the challenges she’s faced along the way, and the belief — in herself and from others — that fuels her journey to the USA Games.
Her energy is contagious, her determination inspiring, and her story a reminder that confidence grows one stroke at a time.
Dive deeper into Amanda’s motivation and her future goals.
Episode ShowNotes & Links:
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.
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org
🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod
⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts
📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1
❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus
👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch
📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials
📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter
Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
About Our Team:
Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice.
Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness.
Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish.
Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy.
The post Road To 2026USAGames: Amanda Propheter — Swimming, Team Illinois first appeared on Special Chronicles.
20 min
June 22 Unified Cheer–Team SO Mississippi Road to the 2026 USA Games
In this episode, Daniel sits down with Coach Erin, athlete Libby Cheney, and unified partner Marian Lynch from Special Olympics Mississippi Interscholastic Division of Competitive Cheer team. Together, we share how Unified Cheer builds confidence, teamwork, leadership, and lifelong friendships. You’ll hear how inclusion comes alive in their school community, what it takes to prepare for competition, and what representing Oklahoma on the Road to the 2026 USA Games means to them.
Highlights in this episode:
The origin of their Unified cheer program
How athletes and unified partners support each other
What practices and competitions look like in the Interscholastic Division
The coach’s perspective on building a culture of inclusion
Their goals and excitement for the 2026 USA Games
A message to listeners about why Unified Champion Schools matter
Episode ShowNotes & Links:
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.
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org
🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod
⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts
📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1
❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus
👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch
📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials
📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter
Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
About Our Team:
About Our Team:
Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice.
Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness.
Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish.
Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy.
The post Unified Cheer–Team SO Mississippi Road to the 2026 USA Games first appeared on Special Chronicles.
54 min
June 21 Unified Cheer–Team SO Oklahoma’s Road to the 2026 USA Games
On this episode of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, Podcast Host Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Coach Christina Gould from the Special Olympics Oklahoma Interscholastic Division of Competitive Cheer team.
Together, we share how Unified Cheer builds confidence, teamwork, leadership, and lifelong friendships. You’ll hear how inclusion comes alive in their school community, what it takes to prepare for competition, and what representing Oklahoma on the Road to the 2026 USA Games means to them.
Highlights in this episode:
The origin of their Unified cheer program
How athletes and unified partners support each other
What practices and competitions look like in the Interscholastic Division
The coach’s perspective on building a culture of inclusion
Their goals and excitement for the 2026 USA Games
A message to listeners about why Unified Champion Schools matter
Episode ShowNotes & Links:
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.
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org
🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod
⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts
📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1
❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus
👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch
📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials
📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter
Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
About Our Team:
About Our Team:
Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice.
Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness.
Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish.
Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy.
The post Unified Cheer–Team SO Oklahoma’s Road to the 2026 USA Games first appeared on Special Chronicles.
41 min
June 20 Road To 2026USAGames: Val Densler — Swimming, Team Illinois
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we dive into the pool with Team Illinois swimmer Val Densler, whose determination is as strong as her stroke. In this conversation, Val opens up about her training routine, the challenges she’s overcome, and the motivation that keeps her pushing toward Minnesota. Her story is a powerful reminder that every lap, every practice, and every moment of effort brings her one step closer to the USA Games.
Val’s journey shows what it means to stay committed, stay focused, and stay inspired on the road to competition.
Episode ShowNotes & Links:
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.
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org
🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod
⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts
📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1
❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus
👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch
📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials
📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter
Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
About Our Team:
About Our Team:
Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice.
Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness.
Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish.
Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy.
The post Road To 2026USAGames: Val Densler — Swimming, Team Illinois first appeared on Special Chronicles.
11 min
June 19 Road To 2026USAGames: Katie O’Neill — Gymnastics, Team Illinois
On this episode of “Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: a Special Chronicles Podcast Series,” we flip over to the gymnastics floor with Katie O’Neill, a Team Illinois athlete whose strength, grace, and discipline shine through every routine. Katie shares how she prepares mentally and physically for competition, the setbacks that have shaped her resilience, and the goals she’s aiming for as she heads to Minnesota.
Her story is a testament to courage — the courage to try, to fall, to get back up, and to keep reaching for something bigger.
Tune in to learn more about Katie’s training focus and her message to fans.
Episode ShowNotes & Links:
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.
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org
🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://SpecialChronicles.com/Pod
⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app: https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts
📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD01BA706651153C3&si=E7AmCB-2hvFHQbO1
❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating at https://specialchronicles.com/ApplePodcasts or joining the PLUS membership at https://specialchronicles.com/Plus
👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch
📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) https://specialchronicles.com/Socials
📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles https://specialchronicles.com/Newsletter
Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission.
About Our Team:
Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice.
Darian Packard is a Content Producer at Special Chronicles and Global Advisor for Special Olympics CHEER, a worldwide inclusive cheerleading movement. She is the mother of four children, including a daughter with Williams syndrome, and is passionate about advancing inclusion and disability awareness.
Linda Smrokowski serves as a Copy Editor at Special Chronicles, bringing her background as a retired foreign language teacher and former Trader Joe’s Crew Member to her editorial work. She is the mother of founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as a proud mother of two daughters, mother-in-law to two sons-in-law, and a grandmother to two granddaughters and one grandson. Linda is also an active musician, playing flute in the choir at St. Cletus Parish.
Adam Smrokowski is the Business Manager at Special Chronicles. He is the father of Founder Daniel Smrokowski, as well as two daughters, and is a proud father-in-law and grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson. Adam supports the organization’s mission through leadership, service, and family-centered advocacy.
The post Road To 2026USAGames: Katie O’Neill — Gymnastics, Team Illinois first appeared on Special Chronicles.
20 min
June 18 Road To 2026USA Games Ep.4: The Support System
On episode 4 of Road to Special Olympics USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we dive into the heart of what powers every Special Olympics athlete: their support system. From coaches who guide athletes toward the national stage to families who cheer through every high and low, this episode highlights the people who make the journey possible.
You’ll hear from Coach Matt Corso of Team Illinois Bowling and family member Cathy O’Neill, whose daughter Katie is competing in Gymnastics, as well as Team Illinois staff member Katelin Zandi who powerfully shares how inclusion doesn’t see disability.
Together, they reveal how encouragement, partnership, and community shape the road to the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota.
Chapters:
0:00 – Episode Intro - Welcome to Episode 4 and today’s theme: the support systems behind every athlete.
2:00 – Coach Interview: Matt Corso (Team Illinois Bowling) - Coach Matt shares his coaching philosophy, how he prepares athletes for USA Games, recognizing athlete struggles, partnering with families, managing pressure, and what inclusion means to him.
29:30 – Family Interview: Cathy O’Neill (Parent of Team Illinois Gymnastics Athlete) - Cathy reflects on being part of her daughter Katie’s support system, the excitement of Minnesota hosting, daily encouragement at home, emotional moments, navigating nerves, celebrating growth, and the meaning of inclusion.
1:25:00 – Community Impact: Katelin Zandi (Team Illinois Staff) - Katelin discusses her role supporting athletes, the power of local programs, Midwest pride, what a strong support system looks like from a staff perspective, and the long‑term legacy of the Games. Jump to: Staff Interview
1:59:00 – Episode Wrap‑Up & Outro - A reflection on the power of support systems and how they shape the Special Olympics movement.
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: https://2026USAGames.org
The post Road To 2026USA Games Ep.4: The Support System first appeared on Special Chronicles.
2 hr 3 min
June 17 Road To 2026USAGames Ep.3: The Athletes' Journey
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.
1 hr 38 min
June 16 Road To 2026USAGames Ep.2: Athlete Advisory Council
On this Episode 2 of Road to Special Olympics 2026 USA Games: A Special Chronicles Podcast Series, we take you behind the scenes with two incredible athlete leaders — David Booth and Shaun Linsey, co-chairs of the Athlete Advisory Council for the 2026 USA Games.
Hosted by Daniel Smrokowski — founder of Special Chronicles, Special Olympics Athlete Leader with Team Illinois, and former Sargent Shriver Global Messenger — this episode explores how athlete leaders shape the athlete experience, influence decision‑making, and help build a more inclusive movement on the road to the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota.
You’ll hear:
How David and Shaun became athlete leaders
What the Athlete Advisory Council does
How athlete voice impacts the 2026 USA Games
Their hopes, challenges, and vision for the future of inclusion
Whether you’re an athlete, volunteer, partner, or champion of inclusion, this episode gives you a front‑row seat to the leadership shaping the Games.
📱Follow the journey of 3,000 athletes by downloading the USA Games app — search “USA GAMES” in your app store.
👨‍💻Learn more about Special Olympics 2026 USA Games at: https://2026USAGames.org
🎧Follow the Podcast Series:
Visit https://SpecialChronicles.com/2026USAGames for all episodes and subscribe to the full series.
The post Road To 2026USAGames Ep.2: Athlete Advisory Council first appeared on Special Chronicles.
57 min

About Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series

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“Road to the Special Olympics 2026 USA Games” is a landmark 10‑part narrative podcast series from Special Chronicles, documenting the journey to, through, and beyond the 2026 USA Games in…

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Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series

Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series episodes

About Road to Special Olympics USA Games | a Special Chronicles Podcast Series