Special Olympics Pennsylvania Winter Games Wrap Up at Seven Springs

Athletes celebrate medals and camaraderie at annual event

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Special Olympics Pennsylvania Winter Games concluded at Seven Springs Mountain Resort, with over 300 athletes competing in alpine skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing events. The games were marked by a positive atmosphere, with returning athletes and new competitors alike celebrating their achievements and the spirit of sportsmanship.

Why it matters

The Special Olympics Pennsylvania Winter Games provide an important platform for athletes with intellectual disabilities to showcase their athletic abilities and experience the joy of competition. The event fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, highlighting the value of sports in empowering individuals and promoting social integration.

The details

During the two-day competition, athletes participated in a variety of winter sports, including alpine skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Awards ceremonies were held to recognize the athletes' accomplishments, with many competitors receiving multiple medals. The games were marked by a positive atmosphere, with returning athletes and new competitors alike celebrating their achievements and the spirit of sportsmanship.

  • The Special Olympics Pennsylvania Winter Games took place on February 13-14, 2026.
  • The awards ceremonies were held on the final day of the games, Thursday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Michelle Jordan

A member of the Winter Games snowshoeing event committee.

Ashlee Ragan

A Cambria County athlete who won a bronze medal in a snowshoeing event.

Adam Spiker

A Somerset County athlete who participated in his first Winter Games and won a silver medal in a snowshoe event.

Vanessa Carroll

A Somerset County athlete who competed in snowshoe for the first time and won a gold medal.

Andrew Sambol

A Somerset County athlete who has been participating in the Winter Games for more than 20 years and has received multiple medals.

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What they’re saying

“This is my first year doing snowshoe, and it means a lot to me. I worked my hardest, and I'm glad that I did it.”

— Ashlee Ragan

“My teammates did snowshoe and I decided to give it a try. I love it and being on snowshoes.”

— Adam Spiker

“I really like this and wanted to do it because it sounded like a lot of fun. I learned how strong I can be.”

— Vanessa Carroll

“There's camaraderie and friendly competition. You bet I'll be back next year. I look forward to this every year.”

— Andrew Sambol

“It's about teamwork; it's about listening to your coaches; it's about learning that things have to be in place sometimes for things to go well, but when they don't go well, they are learned lessons that you can work on for next year. It's also about making sure there's sportsmanship. There's no sore losers here; everybody is a winner.”

— Michelle Jordan, Winter Games snowshoeing event committee member

What’s next

The Special Olympics Pennsylvania organization is already planning for the 2027 Winter Games, which will take place at Seven Springs Mountain Resort once again.

The takeaway

The Special Olympics Pennsylvania Winter Games serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of sports on individuals with intellectual disabilities. The event fosters a spirit of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and personal growth, inspiring athletes and spectators alike to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these remarkable individuals.