Before closing out 2024, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the incredible sports achievements that defined this year for Special Olympics Massachusetts. From milestone anniversaries to life-changing opportunities, these moments showcase the spirit of inclusion, determination, and community:

1. Celebrating 10 years of kicking it Unified with the New England Revolution

This year marked the 10th anniversary of our partnership with the New England Revolution, and what an incredible decade it’s been! Over the past ten years, athletes have enjoyed top-tier training, made lifelong friends from across New England, and competed against Unified teams from all over the country. Here’s to ten years of inclusion, and a heartfelt thank you to the New England Revolution Foundation and Revs Academy for their steadfast support and dedication in making the Unified team an integral part of the broader Revolution community.

2. Tyler & Lindsay: Ready for the World Stage in Turin, Italy

When Tyler Lagasse and Lindsay Blagg learned they were headed to the 2025 World Games in Turin, Italy, it was a moment of utter shock and pure joy. These talented skiers completed a rigorous team trial in Salt Lake City earlier this year, preparing them to take on the slopes in 2025. Their journey exemplifies the determination and passion that make our athletes world-class competitors. Make sure to stay tuned on our social media platforms to see how they perform across the pond and get some behind-the-scenes action of what it looks like for a Special Olympics MA athlete to compete at the international level!  

3. Boston Bruins Prospects Go All In for Floorball

In July, Special Olympics MA athletes joined Boston Bruins prospects at The TRACK at New Balance for an exciting afternoon of Floorball—a new sport making its debut in the Special Olympics Massachusetts community. This event was part of the Boston Bruins’ Community Development Day, an annual initiative where Bruins prospects are split into groups to engage with different community organizations across Boston. The athletes and prospects had a blast competing together, and it marked an exciting kickoff as Special Olympics MA transitions from floor hockey to floorball in 2025.

4. Drake Maye Joins Forces with Athletes Nick and Brett for ‘My Cause My Cleats’

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye joined forces with Special Olympics Massachusetts athletes Nick and Brett Johnson for the “My Cause, My Cleats” campaign, and the result was truly special. “My Cause, My Cleats” lets NFL players dedicate their game day cleats to causes they care about, and for Drake, meeting the Johnson brothers was a personal experience. Watching Nick and Brett play together reminded him of the bond he shares with his own siblings and the fun of playing football in the backyard. This partnership wasn’t just about showing off the brothers' amazing teamwork—it was a powerful reminder of how sports bring people together. For Drake, connecting with Nick and Brett helped shine a spotlight on their achievements and proved that sports are about building lasting friendships and experiences, no matter one’s ability.

5. Going to the Games: Holden & Bridgewater/Raynham

The excitement for the 2026 USA Games is already building! We are thrilled to announce that Holden Youth Soccer’s Unified Team will represent Massachusetts in soccer, while Bridgewater/Raynham Grizzlies Unified Team takes the stage for flag football. Both teams have been training hard and are ready to bring their best to the national stage. Stay tuned for more USA Games announcements in the New Year—next up, winter sports!

As we reflect on these game-changing moments, we are reminded of the power of sports to unite, inspire, and create lasting memories—setting the stage for even greater achievements in the year ahead. Here's to continuing the journey of inclusion, growth, and community in 2025!

‍