42nd to First

“It sort of reminds me of 42^nd Street, because of all the buildings.” Special Olympics USA soccer athlete Robbie Wilson is traveling outside of the United States for the first time. Known for its distinct architecture, Special Olympics USA’s Host Town locations of Bremen and Bremerhaven are a world of novelty for the New York City native. “I think it’s good,” said Robbie. “This country is very beautiful.”

Quite unlike the bustling streets of Manhattan, Bremen is a haven of recreational oases and bike paths. Bordering the North Sea, Robbie experienced a monumental first during the group’s visit to Bremerhaven, a boat ride. Touring the New Harbour, the hour trip offered views of colossal freighters and transport ships, their size rivaling the skyscrapers of Robbie’s home.

In a season of firsts, Robbie is comforted by the familiarity of his teammates, the City Hawks Unified Training Club soccer team. “I wish every day could be like this,” observed Robbie.

Once a week, the team practices together, a time for students from 721M and Harvest Collegiate High School to unite. Stepping outside the confines of their school hallways, city streets and comfort zones, the team embraces the unfamiliarity of firsts.

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The Walk, The Talk

At 8 years old, Scott McCullough was introduced to Special Olympics and 40 years later, he is still walking the walk. This time, it’s on snowshoes. From Nashua, New Hampshire, McCullough trained in a variety of sports with Special Olympics New Hampshire long before he learned of snowshoeing. Now nominated to represent Special Olympics USA in the Special Olympics World Winter Games Torino 2025, he’s proven his ability to walk that walk. And for those who know McCullough, he can talk the talk too.

The Last Defender

“For each of these marks, there is a story.”

Back Home

Special Olympics USA families traveled thousands of miles to cheer for USA. Tennis athlete Heidi Sand’s family happened to be in the neighborhood. In 1955, Heidi’s grandparents immigrated to the United States from Germany. From her mother, Jacque Martin, and her grandmother, Sabina Jurchen, Heidi learned the culture. An ocean away, they remained in contact with their extended family, sharing life updates via Facebook. The last time Heidi saw her family from Germany, she was 4 years old. Thirty-three years later, they watched her win gold at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin.