Day 1 - Saturday, June 4
Early Saturday morning, Team Minnesota held a send-off celebration at the Radisson Blu Mall of America, where athletes checked in, had breakfast and got pumped up for the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games! An official police escort led the team shuttles to MSP airport at 7:15 AM.
On the plane, Team Minnesota got a warm welcome from Sun Country and the Airport Fire Department honored Team Minnesota with a water cannon salute. Photo by Pettit Aviation.
When they arrived in Orlando, Team Minnesota took shuttles to Disney's All-Star Music Resort where they were greeted by tons of cheering fans, staff and volunteers. The team settled in with excitement and anticipation of the Opening Ceremony the next morning!
Day 2 - Sunday, June 5
Team Minnesota woke up bright and early to attend the Opening Ceremony at Exploria Stadium! Team Minnesota joined more than 5,000 other delegates as they marched in marched in the parade of athletes,
During the ceremony, ESPN honored athlete Michelle Alvord (left) who is a member of Team Minnesota's half court basketball team. Michelle was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year and was not able to attend the Games in Orlando. Members of Team Minnesota wore gold wristbands with “Michelle #5” on them in honor of Michelle (right).
The Opening Ceremony was a star-studded event. Sara Bareilles, Tim Shriver, Tim Tebow, members of WWE, Michael James Scott, Mickey & Minnie Mouse and the Disney gang all gave remarks at the event.

SOMN Athlete-Coach James Chalmers had the honor of reciting the coaches’ oath and got to dance with Daisy Duck in the final number.
"You represent the best of the USA."
-Tim Shriver
Immediately following the ceremony, delegations were led to the Amway Center (home of the Orlando Magic) for lunch and a surprise show! The Harlem Globetrotters put on a show just for Special Olympics! They showed off their best tricks and pulled athletes from the crowd to join in the fun.

After watching the Harlem Globetrotters, the team went back to resort for dinner and a relaxing, good night’s sleep before competitions begin!
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