From first-time competitors to returning medalists, Team Washington’s athletics delegation brings together athletes with different backgrounds, experiences, and goals — all preparing to compete at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.
Representing communities across Washington, these athletes have built confidence, leadership skills, friendships, and resilience through Special Olympics. Some discovered a love for competition through Unified sports in high school, while others have spent years representing Washington on state and national stages.
This summer, they’ll come together as one Team Washington.
Many athletes on Team Washington’s athletics delegation say Special Olympics gave them opportunities to grow both on and off the field.
Sawyer Wiggins
Sawyer Wiggins of Maple Valley has competed in track since 2016 and later joined basketball. Through athletics, he has built lasting friendships and found a place where he can compete doing what he loves.
Sawyer recently graduated high school with honors and a 3.7 GPA while also lettering in tennis and participating in choir. Outside of sports, he enjoys drawing, hiking, paddle boarding, swimming, traveling, and collecting Star Wars figures.
Abigail “Abby” McLean
Abigail “Abby” McLean of Normandy Park competes in athletics along with bowling, basketball, softball, and pickleball. Sports have helped her stay active while building teamwork and friendships.
A former high school thrower and bowling athlete, Abby continues training in the gym while working toward greater independence and preparing for the USA Games experience.
Jeremy “Ray” Thomas-Mullen
Jeremy “Ray” Thomas-Mullen of Kent competed in Special Olympics for the first time last year in badminton, basketball, and track. Through the program, Ray says he gained the opportunity to experience high school sports, improve as a teammate, and build friendships along the way.
Known for his humor and talent for impressions, Ray is excited to represent Washington at the USA Games.
Several athletes shared how Special Olympics has helped them become leaders both in competition and within their communities.
Jacquline “Jacki” Borroel Diaz
Jacqueline “Jacki” Borroel Diaz of Kent began competing last year in badminton and track and quickly discovered a love for being part of a team. Her coaches recognized her determination and positivity by presenting her with the Resilience Award.
Cindy Hernandez
Cindy Hernandez of Kent joined Special Olympics track and field last year and has continued pushing herself through new challenges, including overcoming stage fright and learning a new sport.
She was also part of a relay team that broke the Washington State meet record in the Unified Sprint Medley Relay while helping her team place second in the state.
Leofer “Leo” Sanchz Quezada
Leofer “Leo” Sanchz Quezada of Kent has competed in cornhole, badminton, basketball, and track over the past two years. Through Unified sports and Special Olympics, Leo says he gained confidence while representing his school and helping lead his school’s Unified program.
Kallel Davis
Kallel Davis of Kent has competed in basketball and track for two years and has already reached state competition twice while earning varsity letters since his freshman year. Outside of athletics, he enjoys reading, gaming, spending time with friends, and practicing Tae Kwon Do, where he currently holds a red-black belt.
Hannah Teter
Hannah Teter of Kent has been involved with Special Olympics for three years and also serves on the Washington State Youth Activation Committee. She credits the program with helping her build confidence and a strong sense of belonging.
Hannah graduated with the highest GPA in her class while lettering in both basketball and track. She also enjoys graphic design, baking, music, and learning American Sign Language.
Maya Frink
Maya Frink of Graham brings years of leadership and national-level experience to Team Washington.
A Special Olympics athlete for 10 years, Maya competes in athletics, basketball, and bowling while serving on both the state and Pierce County Athlete Leadership Councils. She previously represented Washington at the 2018 USA Games in Seattle, earning two silver medals and one bronze medal in athletics.
Maya says she is most proud of always giving her best effort, whether competing, leading, or supporting teammates.
Kevin Short
Kevin Short of Puyallup has participated in Special Olympics since 2007, competing in track and field, basketball, and bowling. Through the program, he has built friendships and continued competing while overcoming medical challenges that required patience and resilience.
A state gold medalist and dedicated athlete, Kevin continues preparing for Minnesota by staying active and training consistently.
As the USA Games approach, Team Washington’s athletics delegation continues training, competing, and preparing to represent Washington on one of the biggest stages in Special Olympics.
Together, these athletes reflect the dedication, leadership, perseverance, and community 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.