Badminton took an important step forward in its growth across the Special Olympics North America (SONA) region through two dedicated sport demonstrations in Target Village during the Special Olympics USA Games held in Minnesota from 20 – 26 June. The activation sessions, held on Monday and Thursday from 14:00 – 17:00, were designed to introduce the sport to athletes, coaches, and Unified partners while building momentum for badminton’s continued expansion across the region.
The response was strong, with athletes and coaches from across the country taking part throughout the week. Programs represented included Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming with many additional delegations joining in open play sessions throughout the entire week. The high level of engagement reflected both the enthusiasm for new sport opportunities and the appetite for badminton within the Special Olympics movement.
The demonstrations were led by Special Olympics Arizona, with coach Meg Bowman providing on-court instruction and guidance alongside Unified partners Ripley Swinehart & Skeet Bowman, who contributed to the activation while also participating in other Games events, with Ripley competing in athletics and Skeet cheering on Team Arizona. Their involvement helped create an inclusive and welcoming environment that showed peer learning in action. Special Olympics Arizona staff member Thomas Miranda also played a key role in supporting delivery across both activation days.
"This demo wasn't just about teaching athletes, partners, coaches, and volunteers to love badminton. It was a big step in bringing badminton to every delegation. Our goal to have badminton competition in the 2030 USA Games is one step closer. My favorite part was working with athletes of all different abilities and showing coaches that badminton is truly a sport for everyone," said Meg Bowman, Special Olympics Arizona coach.
"It was a fun experience. It took a minute for people to understand. As soon as they figured it out, they loved it!" said Skeet Bowman, Unified partner.
"I started badminton three years ago and instantly fell in love with it. Additionally, I am a part of Unified Sports, which has taught me patience, leadership skills, and confidence, while also bringing me new friendships. I have learned that badminton is a game that anyone can play, no matter their skill level or disability. However, not everyone knows this. I was excited to get the opportunity to share the joy I experience with this sport at the USA Games, and I hope that people will learn just how amazing it is and start to expand it in their own delegations, not just because of the competitive aspect, but because it brings people together and builds a community. I am optimistic that the badminton community can grow and become a foundation of support and inclusion," said Ripley Swinehart, Unified partner.
Beyond participation, a meaningful legacy was created through the donation of all badminton equipment to Special Olympics Arizona. This contribution will support the continued development of the sport within the state and strengthen ongoing efforts to grow badminton across Special Olympics programs in the United States.
The activations in Minnesota demonstrated both the growing interest in badminton and the power of collaboration across athletes, coaches, Unified partners, and staff. With continued investment and engagement, badminton is well positioned to expand its footprint within Special Olympics North America in the years ahead.
Aspirations to host a Special Olympics national badminton competition are underway, and the momentum from Minnesota sets the stage for badminton's continued growth at the next USA Games in Cleveland, Ohio.
Interested in bringing badminton to your Program? Visit badminton for free resources or reach out to Maggie Brennan, to explore next steps.
