A local Special Olympics flag football team returned home with a bronze medal after representing Team Kentucky at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.
The team opened pool play with a dominant 39-6 victory over Virginia before falling just short to Pennsylvania, 46-45, in a high-scoring thriller. A scheduled pool play matchup against Nebraska was canceled because of rain.
Despite the cancellation, Team Kentucky earned a spot in the top bracket for medal play, where it faced an undefeated Indiana squad that would go on to win the gold medal. Indiana defeated Kentucky 49-12.
Kentucky bounced back in the bronze medal game with a rematch against Pennsylvania, earning a 39-24 victory to secure a spot on the podium.
The offense featured balanced scoring, with rushing touchdowns from Walt Drake, Zachary Lindsey, Isaiah Smith, Kevin Rates, and Caden Glenn. Hunter Glenn also connected with his brother, Caden Glenn, for a touchdown pass.
The defense also played a key role in the victory. Kevin Rates recorded an interception, while Ian Powers delivered a critical safety late in the game to help seal the win.
Following the medal ceremony, the flag football team remained at the games to cheer on other members of Team Kentucky competing in various sports.
The local delegation represented Daviess, Hancock, and Muhlenberg counties as part of Team Kentucky, which included 37 athletes competing at the national event. The Special Olympics USA Games brought together more than 3,000 athletes and 1,500 coaches from all 50 states.
