Rockwall athletes return home with medals, memories from 2026 Special Olympics USA Games

Rockwall County’s four Team Texas athletes were welcomed home following the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis. 

Four Team Texas athletes proudly represented Rockwall County on the national stage in Minneapolis.

ROCKWALL, TX (July 7, 2026) — Four Rockwall County athletes are back home after proudly representing Team Texas at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, bringing home an impressive collection of medals, top finishes, and unforgettable memories. Their achievements in swimming and Unified Soccer showcased months of dedication, perseverance, and hometown pride while competing against athletes from across the country.

The Rockwall County delegation showcased determination, sportsmanship, and hometown pride while representing both Team Texas and their local Special Olympics program.

Swimmer Rachel Shupp earned an impressive three silver medals, while fellow swimmer Cole Randolph brought home a bronze medal in addition to fourth- and sixth-place finishes in his events.

On the soccer field, Scott Wendt and Zach Miller competed as members of Team Texas’ 7-on-7 Unified Soccer Team, helping their squad earn a fourth-place national finish.

The athletes returned home to a warm welcome from their Rockwall County Special Olympics family. During a recent celebration, coaches, teammates, and supporters honored the four athletes with handmade congratulatory posters recognizing their outstanding accomplishments and the dedication they demonstrated throughout their journey to the national games.

The athletes’ success follows months of training after being selected earlier this year to represent Team Texas at the prestigious national competition.

Beyond the medals and final standings, coaches say the opportunity to compete on the national stage, meet fellow athletes from across the United States, and represent their community made the experience especially meaningful.

“Our athletes represented Rockwall County with pride and showed the nation what Team Texas is all about,” organizers shared. “We’re incredibly proud of everything they accomplished.”

Blue Ribbon News congratulates Rachel, Cole, Scott, and Zach on an outstanding showing at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games and celebrates the coaches, families, volunteers, and supporters whose encouragement helped make the journey possible.

For more on the athletes’ selection to Team Texas before the games, read our original story here: https://blueribbonnews.com/2026/05/team-texas-four-rockwall-athletes-selected-for-2026-special-olympics-usa-games/

By Dawn Redig, Blue Ribbon News. Photos submitted by Betty Shupp.