A group of athletes from Longview and Kelso will represent Team Washington on one of the biggest stages in Special Olympics this summer as they travel to Minnesota for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.
The soccer delegation includes athletes with years of experience across multiple sports, longtime teammates, first-time USA Games competitors, athlete leaders, medalists, and competitors who have grown through the friendships and opportunities created by Special Olympics Washington.
Over the next few months, the team will continue preparing through practices, training, and competition before taking the field against athletes from across the country.
Many athletes on Team Washington’s soccer delegation have spent years competing, improving, and growing through Special Olympics.
Ryan Pellham
Ryan Pellham of Longview joined Special Olympics seven years ago through bowling and flag football before finding his passion for soccer. Through sports, he has developed confidence, leadership skills, and strong friendships within his community.
Robert Bailey
Robert Bailey of Longview has competed in soccer, basketball, football, softball, and track and field since 2017 and is a two-time silver medalist in the pentathlon. He says becoming a father has motivated him even more as he prepares to compete at the USA Games.
Rebecca “Becky” Ulman
Rebecca “Becky” Ulman of Kelso has spent 12 years competing in soccer, basketball, and volleyball and is especially proud of earning gold medals in state soccer competition.
Alyssa Davis
Alyssa Davis brings 25 years of Special Olympics experience to Team Washington and has competed in basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball, and track and field while also serving as a team leader and assistant helper.
Several athletes shared how Special Olympics has helped shape their confidence and connections with others.
Jason Stoner
Jason Stoner values being part of a supportive team environment and is excited for the opportunity to experience the USA Games for the first time.
Larissa Moore
Larissa Moore says Special Olympics helped her build friendships, improve communication skills, and become more confident asking for help when needed. Outside of soccer, she works as a cook for the Rainier School District and enjoys tie-dyeing and painting shirts.
Kevin Reed-Funkhouser
Kevin Reed-Funkhouser joined Special Olympics about a year ago and says the program has helped him overcome anxiety around meeting new people while building friendships through soccer.
Alicia Finley
Alicia Finley has spent 12 years competing across multiple sports and credits athletics with helping her strengthen communication skills and grow as both an athlete and teammate.
As training continues, athletes across the delegation are staying active through practices, workouts, and competition while preparing for Minnesota.
Shane Engstrom
Shane Engstrom continues working toward improving both socially and physically through soccer and community activities after six years with Special Olympics.
Travis Planas
Travis Planas, who began his Special Olympics journey in Hawaii before continuing athletics in Washington, says teamwork and friendship are some of the most meaningful parts of competition. He is especially proud of earning a gold medal in bowling during his athletic career.
This summer, Team Washington’s soccer delegation will take the field representing not only their communities, but also the dedication, teamwork, and resilience that continue to define Special Olympics Washington.
Follow Team Washington’s journey to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games at GoTeamWashington.org and stay tuned for more athlete stories in the months ahead.
