Special Olympics New York Announces 2026 Athlete of the Year Nominees

Albany, NY – Special Olympics New York today announced nine finalists for the 2026 Athlete of the Year Award. The winner will be revealed at State Summer Games in Utica, during Opening Ceremonies Friday, June 5, at Utica University.

“We are so proud to celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding athletes,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “They are leaders, role models, and friends not only their regional communities but to athletes across the state. Congratulations to all of the nominees!”

To qualify for this award, nominees must fulfill several criteria, including at least five years of training and competition experience with Special Olympics NY, as well as participation in at least three sports and two competitions throughout the year. The winner has been anonymously selected by the Statewide Athlete Leadership Council.

The nominee are as follows:

Sheadan Smith, Capital Region: Sheadan began his Special Olympics journey with Unified Sports in high school. As a fierce competitor in softball, bowling, Unified floorball, and basketball, he never misses an opportunity to uplift everyone around him. Off the court, he works at a senior center, participates in an adult social group, and supports local fundraising efforts. And on the court? One can always hear Sheadan’s voice at practice: “Let’s go, we got this!”

Elaine Lindsey, Central Region: Whether she’s assisting with equipment, making encouraging signs, or competing in any of five different sports, Elaine is a vibrant member of her local community. Most recently, she shared her story at a press conference kicking off the summer season. With more than 25 years of participation, Elaine’s commitment shows; her nominating staff describe her as “well-liked, deeply respected, and admired by peers and coaches alike.”

Kyle McGonigal, Genesee Region: Some athletes are leaders on the field. Others, like Kyle, lead from the sidelines, even when they can’t play. He proved this during a recent recovery from surgery, during which he continued to attend practices to cheer on his teammates and assist with setup. Now fully recovered, Kyle competes fiercely in golf, floorball, basketball, bocce, and powerlifting.

Nicole Wojnar, Hudson Valley Region: No matter the challenge, Nicole meets it head-on. This season, she accepted a new leadership role on her softball team and competed in another event for the very first time. Neither challenge stopped her. Her positivity, along with her commitment to track & field, softball, bowling, and volleyball, make Nicole an exemplary representative of the Hudson Valley Region.

Damien Gallo, Long Island Region: To the people who know him best, Damien is “one of the most reliable and dedicated athletes.” He has spent 18 years training and competing in five sports year-round, including floorball, basketball, and bowling. And that’s on top of his full-time job and volunteer firefighting service. All those qualities and more make Damien an aspirational figure for athletes everywhere.

Daniel Block, New York City Region: Volunteer, advocate, leader, and athlete—that’s how everyone knows Daniel. As an NYC Region athlete for 19 years, Daniel has served so many roles, from competitor and Athlete Leadership Council Member to referee and Capitol Hill delegate. His nominating staff put it best: “Daniel brings professionalism and heart to every role he takes on.”

Joseph Cross, North Country Region: Focus, preparedness, positivity, integrity, sportsmanship—Joseph embodies those qualities and more. As a Special Olympics NY athlete for more than a decade, he’s left his mark on his three favorite sports: bocce, bowling, and softball. In the words of regional staff, Joseph “strengthens the entire program and inspires everyone around him.”

Derrick Vansteinburg, Southern Tier Region: Although Derrick is the newest athlete to our movement among these nominees, he’s already made a lasting impact. In just five years, he’s contributed so much to the Southern Tier Region, from encouraging his fellow athletes to advocating for sportsmanship and respect throughout his community. Derrick is a true team player, no matter the setting.

Angelo Sanetick, Western Region: Between competing in seven sports and volunteering for countless fundraisers, the Western Region community simply wouldn’t be the same without Angelo. In addition to his athletic pursuits, Angelo runs his school store, volunteers with Unified Sports and Leadership Club, and assists at disability awareness tables—and he does it all with kindness, positivity, and an unmatched work ethic.

SHARE THIS: