The Carrollton Parks and Recreation Department’s Special Olympics Competition Cheer Team received cheers of their own recently when the athletes claimed gold at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.
“Last week was truly an unbelievable experience,” said Assistant Director of Recreation Katie Mosley. “The amount of pure joy, excitement, determination and teamwork was inspiring. This group worked incredibly hard on their routine for months and it all paid off. I’m so thankful I have the opportunity to work alongside these athletes and coaches.”
The games were held on the campus of the University of Minnesota. The athletes were scored in seven categories: crowd leading, partner stunts, pyramids, tumbling/individual skills, choreography, flow of routine/transitions and overall presentation/dance/crowd appeal.
“As a coach, there is no greater reward than watching your athletes grow, believe in themselves and achieve something they once only dreamed about,” said Therapeutics Coordinator Jennifer Gunnells. “These young ladies did exactly that and bringing home the gold was simply the icing on the cake. Sharing this experience with three coaches and 14 extraordinary cheerleaders is a memory I will cherish forever. What an unforgettable journey!”
For questions concerning this event or the Carrollton Parks and Recreation Department, please call (770) 832-1161.
