VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — For the first time, the Virginia Beach Special Olympics Flag Football Team has been selected to play at the USA Games.
The field at Plaza Middle School was filled with excitement as the flag football team, also known as the D-Boys, prepared to make their way to Minnesota next summer for the Special Olympics USA Games. The inclusive team features athletes from ages 21 to 62.
Organizers say the 2026 USA Games will unite more than 4,000 athletes from all 50 states. Here in Virginia, 100 athletes will represent the state across 10 different sports.
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WTKR News 3 reporter Kelsey Jones attended a team practice capturing the emotional moment when coaches surprised the players with the announcement.
"We would like to congratulate you on being selected as a candidate for Team Virginia as the D-Boys Flag Football Team [will be] attending the 2026 USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in June 2026," the coaches announced amid the sound of cheers.
Barbara Parker-Rawls, Special Olympics Flag Football Coach, says practice, dedication, and hard work contributed to her players being chosen.
"It’s more than a game for them; it’s inclusion. It’s showing people that even though you have special needs, you can still play this game," said Parker-Rawls.
Leaders say through the power of sports and inclusion, the Special Olympics USA Games will spark a change that transforms lives, communities and the world.
