A LETTER FROM USOPA PRESIDENT
Hello Olympian and Paralympian Family,
There is an undeniable sense of excitement in the air. The United States Olympians and Paralympians Association (USOPA) Executive Committee is composed of insightful, innovative, and dedicated individuals. Each member brings creativity, vision, and a proactive spirit to the table. Being surrounded by people who truly care is nothing short of magical. The USOPA Executive Committee stands second to none.
Please join me in extending a warm USOPA welcome to the new USOPC, Manager of Alumni Relations, Robbie Fulton II. He is an outstanding addition to our team, bringing with him a variety of experience building relationships, integrity in prioritizing rich athlete journeys, and fresh perspective on the Movements. We are thrilled to have him on board and confident he will help us drive USOPA’s mission forward.
USOPC/USOPA has been doing outstanding work on the strategic plans that centers around strengthening its mission to support, unite, and amplify the voices of United States Olympians and Paralympians. Currently we are actively accomplishing key initiatives designed to support and elevate our community.
One of many USOPC/USOPA’s accomplishments in 2025 is strengthening Chapter support. This is some of the work that has been completed and/or is underway:
• National Chapter Health Assessment: Evaluate the health and activity of each chapter.
• Toolkits for Success: Providing resources to help chapters grow and operate effectively.
• Mentorship: Assigned USOPA Executive Committee Chapter Development Team mentors to support each chapter’s leadership.
• Chapter Grant Fund: Launch funding opportunities for chapter initiatives.
• Continuity & Leadership Structure: Reinforce executive committees (President, VP, Secretary, Treasurer).
• Letter of Chapter Authenticity: Formal documentation of chapter recognition by USOPA/ USOPC.
Enhance Communication & Engagement
• Bi-annual (or more often!) updates from Chapters to USOPA.
• Improved digital platforms for connecting Olympians and Paralympians.
• Encourage chapters to host regular events and community-building activities.
Some upcoming activities are establishing meaningful goals for LA 2028 by aligning visibility and engagements. We will also begin increasing Paralympic awareness across various platforms. This is the beginning of great things to come.
As we look forward, we will also gear up for the Olympic Winter Games Milan Cortina 2026. The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), along with its many partners and stakeholders, is moving at a powerful pace toward excellence. While taking a deeper dive into our athletes, we are living in a transformative era within the Olympic and Paralympic movements. Athletes across the nation are setting their sights on Los Angeles 2028, and we are already witnessing exceptional growth, performance, and brilliance. Let us continue to show up, support, and celebrate our athletes. The thrill of victory is on the horizon. Yes—Amazing Awaits, and Greatness Will Be Displayed!
In closing I would like to add, it was an absolute honor to serve on the USOPC nominating committee for the United States Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony for the Class of 2025 will be held on July 12th, 2025 and it promises to be one of the most inspiring classes to date. These legendary athletes deserve our admiration and celebration.
Together, let us continue to uplift, inspire, and champion one another.
Sincerely Yours,
ALUMNI RELATIONS UPDATE
It is an honor to introduce myself as the new Manager of Alumni Relations. My name is Robbie Fulton II, and I couldn’t be more excited to join this vibrant community of leaders, advocates, and champions. With a background rooted in service and a career that’s grown through my time in collegiate athletics at Marquette University, I’ve always been drawn to spaces where community, connection, and purpose intersect. That’s what brought me here, and it’s what fuels my passion for building meaningful relationships within this remarkable family.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and teams in discovering and elevating their potential, stories, and passions. Whether it was mentoring athletes or working with communities through social services, my mission has always been to empower people to connect with their values and each other. That same spirit is what I now bring to USOPC. I’m grateful for this professional responsibility as an opportunity to build bridges between generations, experiences, and aspirations.
I’m inspired by the legacies each of you carry as representatives of Team USA. You’ve all achieved amazing things, and we have the chance to translate that excellence into lifelong engagement, mentorship, and community. I believe the strength of any organization lies in its people, and the best way to honor the shared history is to stay connected and continue shaping the future together while celebrating our legends.
As I step into this role, I’m eager to listen, learn, and work with intention. Whether it’s through events, stories, service projects, or new initiatives, my goal is to make sure you feel seen, heard, and valued. I look forward to meeting many of you in the months ahead and working together to strengthen the USOPA network for today and for generations to come.
OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC DAY
USOPA Chapters and members celebrated Olympic & Paralympic Day around the country in the days surrounding June 23rd. They demonstrated the meaning and fun of community connection and spread Olympic and Paralympic values! Did you attend or organize an event for this holiday? We want to hear about it, and will feature it in our next Scoop! Submit your photos and stories here, and mark it on your calendars for next year!
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Olympians and Paralympians spent a morning of sport on June 20 with kids at the Spartan Nash YMCA in Grand Rapids at their Olympic & Paralympic Day celebration! The event preceded the Meijer Michigan State Games in Rockford, where Tia Brooks, OLY (T&F, 2012, pictured high-fiving the kids) was the keynote speaker and torch lighter. The athletes were also featured in the opening ceremony parade and dunking exhibition for the State Games.
HOUSTON CHAPTER
On June 23rd, the Houston Chapter collaborated with the Harris County Houston Sports Authority, reVision Houston, and the YMCA to host an Olympic & Paralympic Day celebration for over 100 children and local Olympians & Paralympians. Participants rotated through a series of Olympic-inspired stations, including gymnastics led by Tasha Schwikert Moser, track and field with Funmi Jimoh Blakemore and Elexa Orrange-Allen, tae kwon do with Nia Abdallah, and breaking with Paris Olympian Jeffrey “Bboy Jeffro” Louis. The awards station was led by three-time Paralympian in shooting, Jazmin Almlie-Ryan.
Every child had the opportunity to visit each station and learn basic skills directly from USOPA members. Special placards, designed to resemble event tickets and featuring vibrant action shots, were created to celebrate Olympians and Paralympians and inspire the children. The day concluded with lunch, an autograph session, and inspiring words from Jeffrey “Bboy Jeffro” Louis. See a video of the festivities here!
MISSOURI/ ILLINOIS CHAPTER
President Jim Campbell, OLY (1994) and chapter members joined in the celebration held at the site of the 1904 Olympic Games in St. Louis, held in collaboration between the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation (JJK, OLY (1984, ‘88, ‘92, ‘96) and the St. Louis Sports Commission.
INAUGURAL STATE GAMES FEATURES LOCAL OLYMPIAN
The State Games of Tennessee included Tokyo 2020 Olympian (hammer throw) Alex Young in their first ever opening ceremony! 2025 is the first year Tennessee has held this mutli-sport event, a great relationship to build on and a wonderful opportunity for community to be exposed to Olympic and Paralympic values surrounding Olympic & Paralympic Day moving forward.
USOPC Alumni Relations will highlight Olympic and Paralympic Day even more in the years to come! Enjoy these examples of community engagement, and let us know how we can support you in planning your own celebrations. This annual reason to get out and further the Movements can help Team USA fans understand that the Olympics and Paralympics aren’t every four years, they’re every day.
OREGON CHAPTER
President John McArdle, OLY (1980) and chapter member Jack Elder, OLY (1972) learned along with the kids from Sean O’Neill, OLY (1988, ‘92) about his specialty, table tennis! At an Olympic & Paralympic Day event hosted on June 24 by the Salem YMCA and organized in cooperation with Paddle Palace, players of all ages and backgrounds played, connected, and were inspired by Olympic & Paralympic values. See more photos here!
THE PODIUM
Welcome to The Podium, a quarterly spotlight of life updates, career or personal milestones, and more from USOPA members across the country. This is an opportunity to stay connected with fellow alumni who choose to take the podium and give us an inside look into their lives!
Daniel
Walsh, OLY
Rowing | 2008
Steve Coppola, OLY
Rowing | 2008
Luke Walton, OLY
Rowing | 2004
Mettle Factory, the podcast site for high performance storytelling. Mettle Factory’s mission is to provide a platform for creators to share compelling stories that captivate and inspire audiences. Mettle Factory is dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives, while delivering top-notch entertainment. Tune into the podcast series as Walsh, Coppola, Walton and friends push the boundaries of storytelling and bring immersive experiences to listeners and viewers.
Listen/Watch Here: Mettle Factory Podcast
Cassidy Krug, OLY
Diving | 2012
Cassidy Krug weaves together her own story with those of transitioners from all walks of life. Her research and conversations reveal concrete ways to move through change with grace: to honor what you’re leaving behind, embrace the murk of uncertainty, bring forward the best version of yourself, and opt into the life you want to lead. No matter what transition you may be experiencing, Resurface will give you the tools to navigate the tough parts more easily, and the good parts more joyfully.
Order Your Copy: Resurface
Alison Gibson, OLY Diving
| 2020, ‘24
Alison Gibson’s 2024 Olympic Games experience in Paris became more than just a competition—it ignited a movement. A chance meeting with Mary Kamau, founder of Missions of Hope International, inspired Gibson to use her platform for something greater. Kamau’s story of building schools and hospitals in Kenya deeply moved her, and Gibson launched “Impact Beyond Paris” with the goal of sponsoring all 243 children at the Pangani school by the end of the Olympics. Though she didn’t reach that goal in time, the initiative gained powerful momentum.
Motivated to deepen her connection, Gibson planned a trip to Kenya, which was unexpectedly funded by an anonymous donor. Seeing the impact firsthand only strengthened her commitment. By mid-May, with widespread support, she raised $100,000 to help build a medical center, marking a major milestone. Now, with construction underway, Gibson and the mission are focused on saving lives and creating lasting change.
Subscribe to Alison’s Substack Here: Alison’s Substack
Alison
Cassidy
Allyson Felix, OLY
Track and Field | 2004, ’08, ’12, ’16, ‘20
Allyson Felix was appointed to the IOC Athletes‘ Commission in 2024 by her peers, Olympics.com caught up with her to speak about her appointment. “I hope to continue to listen to the athletes and hear how they want to be supported,” Felix said. In the article, Felix speaks about her retirement and overcoming challenges but finding purpose while helping fellow athletes.
Read Article: Allyson Felix - IOC Athletes’ Commission
Ashley
Dyce,
PLY
Para – Powerlifting | 2024
Ashley Dyce shares her experiences and lessons on how to overcome challenges and pursue goals. Her book is designed to motivate readers to stay focused on their dreams and never give up.
Purchase Here: What Can She Do?
Patricia S. Collins, PLY
Paratriathlon | 2016
Patricia “Patty” S. Collins has been named the 27th Director of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. She becomes the first woman to serve as director in the bureau’s 162-year history. The BEP is responsible for printing all fiscal notes (paper money) in the United States. Collins retired as a colonel, following a 24-yearcareer in the U.S. Army before entering this role.
Read Article: Release
Paul
Juda,
Gymnastics | 2024
OLY
Paul Juda took home bronze at Paris 2024 after coming off a 2024 NCAA floor exercise championship and team & vault silver medalist (Michigan). For his contributions to the Michigan community and athletics, Juda was named Grand Marshal at the 2025 Detroit Grand Prix Race.
Read Article: Paul Juda Release
US Speedskating
US Speedskating hosted more than 80 alumni during the ISU Long Track World Cup 4 event in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Among those in attendance were two of the organization’s oldest Olympians, Chuck Burke, OLY (1952, ’56) and Gene Sandvig, OLY (1956), whose presence added a special sense of history and legacy to the gathering.
Website Here: US Speedskating Website
Alana Nichols, PLY
Wheelchair Basketball, Alpine Skiing, Sprint Kayak | 2008, ‘10, ‘12, ‘14, ‘16
The first American woman to win gold at both the Summer and Winter Paralympic Games (Wheelchair Basketball in 2008 and downhill and giant slalom in 2010 (among other medals)), Alana Nichols is a 2025 New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame inductee. The proud New Mexican has felt unwavering support throughout her storied career from her home state, and inspires others to pursue their dreams regardless of obstacles through her continued athletic career and zest for life, as she’s also now an ISA World Adaptive Surfing Champion.
Read Article: Tri-City Record Article
SHARE YOUR STORY
Step up to The Podium and share your life updates, career milestones, and more with our USOPA community. Submissions will be featured on the Team USA alumni website and in the USOPA quarterly magazine.
FOUNDATION
Like many of you, I was an Olympic fan long before I became an Olympian. It started with my dad’s love for the Olympic Games—his passion for track and field, and especially for Louis Zamperini. When you have someone in your family who’s got Olympic fever, it runs deep in your DNA.
Being part of national teams, world championships, NCAA championship teams and, of course, the Olympic team, was a dream come true. But as much as I loved the sport, I found myself drawn to another passion—television. Still, no matter where life took me, I remained connected to the Olympic rings and the spirit of competition.
Several years ago, I felt compelled to reach out to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and its new foundation. As a veteran Olympian, I realized I might be able to help bridge the gap between the Olympic & Paralympic Movement, its alumni, and the heart of the Games. That’s what led me to take on the role of ambassador for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Foundation.
The foundation supports Team USA athletes across their journey, from strength and conditioning, training and travel to mental health and sports medicine resources. Every gift to the USOPF goes directly to athletes and the programs that empower them.
As an ambassador, my mission is simple: to tell our story. It’s impossible for me to fully capture the experiences of the generations before me, especially the challenges they faced with limited resources. However, I can speak to the progress we’ve made. Most importantly, I want to remind our Olympian & Paralympian community that I see you. I get it. We’re on this journey of improvement, and I believe we are truly moving in the right direction.
The foundation now has a robust framework in place, with strong leadership and thorough oversight. We’re ensuring that every dollar is accounted for and spent where it’s needed most. Beyond just financial support, our donors are contributing their expertise and resources to help create programs that will truly change lives.
A perfect example of this is our partnership with Guild, which offers retired athletes (within 10 years of retirement) free online education. From specialized certifications to master’s degrees, this program gives athletes the tools they need to prepare for life after sports, without any catch. It’s a chance for athletes to make steady progress toward their next career while still pursuing their Olympic & Paralympic dreams.
We all share one thing in common: no matter how successful we are, we will all eventually retire from sport.
SPOTLIGHT
That’s why helping athletes transition is crucial.
The foundation is also investing in cutting-edge technology to support athletes and coaches. We’re working to equip them with advanced tools and analytics that provide even the smallest edge—an edge that can make the difference between making the podium and being left off. Take the U.S. men’s gymnastics team as an example. They employed a statistician to analyze how including more difficult moves in their routines could impact their scores. The result? A bronze medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
And, of course, I must mention the recent milestone in Olympic & Paralympic retirement funds. The Stevens Awards will provide each athlete competing for Team USA in Milan-Cortina and Los Angeles with a $100,000 award at age 45 or 20 years after their last competition, whichever is later, and an additional $100,000 in life insurance for their families.. While it may not directly affect all of you, it’s important to celebrate these monumental changes. Team USA is finally getting things right.
We are listening to you, we value you, and we see you. I’ve felt the frustration of being disconnected from the Olympic & Paralympic family, and that’s why I’m
dedicated to changing that. We want to hear your stories, reconnect with you, and ensure that you stay connected for years to come.
The next few years are going to be incredible as we approach another home Games. My own Olympic dream began in LA in 1984, when my dad took us to the Games. Let’s work together to make more dreams come true when the Games return in 2028.
Summer (Sanders) Schlopy, OLY
Honoring Your Legacy at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
As Olympic and Paralympic alumni, you are the reason this Museum exists—a living tribute to the legacy you’ve created through dedication, perseverance, and excellence. Your stories are the heartbeat of the Museum, shaping every exhibit and inspiring every visitor.
This July, as we celebrate the Museum’s fifth anniversary, we reflect on the incredible impact you’ve had in bringing it to life. Thank you for being the foundation of everything we do. It’s our honor to celebrate your achievements and share your legacy with the world.
As Olympic and Paralympic alumni, you receive complimentary admission! Explore the incredible legacy of Team USA through guided tours, live artifact demonstrations, and engaging events designed to bring history to life.
Have questions or want to connect? Reach out to us anytime at athletes@usopm.org.
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum Festival Returns This July
From July 10–13, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum Festival will bring four days of celebration to Olympic City USA. Held every two years in conjunction with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, the Festival honors the legacy of Team USA through free public events, athlete appearances, and interactive experiences across Colorado Springs.
This year’s highlights include a community movie night, athlete-led outreach, and a high-energy fan experience at the Museum on Friday evening. For the first time, the Museum will offer free admission all day on Saturday, July 12, and Sunday, July 13. Visitors can enjoy athlete meet-and-greets, Olympic-themed activities, and the debut of a new exhibit, Beyond the Podium: Celebrating the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame.
We’re proud to celebrate the legacy of Team USA and the athletes who inspire it. To learn more, visit usopm.org/festival.
Five-Year Anniversary
On July 30, 2025, we’ll mark five years of honoring America’s greatest athletes. To celebrate, the Museum will host a special day of programming, including interactive experiences and athlete appearances. Admission will be just $5 all day—come celebrate the milestone you helped make possible!
Legacy Library Book Club
We’re excited to announce the second edition of Legacy Library: The USOPM’s Virtual Book Club! Join us on Tuesday, August 19, at 6 p.m. MT for this free virtual event, where readers connect with athletes through powerful stories.
This edition features Paralympic bronze medalist Melissa Stockwell, who will discuss her memoir The Power of Choice: My Journey from Wounded Warrior to World Champion. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation.
Register at usopm.org/bookclub.
Few honors carry the same significance as induction into the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame—a recognition not only of medals and milestones, but of the lasting impact made by athletes, coaches, teams, and contributors who have helped define Team USA. As the Hall welcomes its newest class in 2025, it also marks 45 years since its founding, celebrating the occasion with a community festival honoring the Olympic and Paralympic Movements across generations.
THE HISTORY
Since its founding in 1979, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame has honored individuals and teams whose achievements go beyond athletic excellence. The 2025 inductees reflect the depth and diversity of impact across eras, sports, and communities within the Olympic and Paralympic movement. Their stories will be preserved at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs, where they will continue to inspire and educate future generations.
TEAM USA TIME MACHINE THE U.S. OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC HALL OF FAME WELCOMES THE CLASS OF 2025
THE CLASS OF 2025
OLYMPIANS
Serena Williams
Williams stands among the most dominant athletes in sports history. A four-time Olympic gold medalist, she claimed doubles titles in 2000, 2008, and 2012 with her sister Venus, and captured singles gold in 2012. With 23 Grand Slam singles titles, she is firmly established as one of the all-time greats in tennis and beyond. Williams has redefined global athleticism, and her resilience and advocacy for equality have made her a cultural icon.
Allyson Felix
Across five Olympic Games from 2004 to 2020, Allyson Felix earned 11 medals (7 gold, 3 silver, 1 bronze), becoming the most decorated U.S. track and field Olympian ever. Celebrated for her graceful stride and fierce determination, she has also emerged as a leading advocate for maternal health and athlete rights. Felix’s influence endures through her continued efforts to uplift women in sport.
Gabby Douglas
the 2012 London Olympics, Gabby Douglas made history as the first Black woman to win the individual all-around gold medal in gymnastics. She also became the first American gymnast to win both the individual all-around and team golds at the same Games—a milestone achievement that redefined excellence in the sport. Douglas added a second team gold in 2016 and her success helped pave the way for greater representation and opportunity in gymnastics.
Bode Miller
six Olympic medals (1 gold, 3 silver, 2 bronze) across five Winter Games from 1998 to 2014, Bode Miller stands as the most decorated American male alpine skier of all time. Known for his bold, aggressive style, he brought a new level of excitement to the sport. His gold medal in the super combined at Vancouver 2010 and success on the World Cup circuit helped raise the profile of U.S. alpine skiing on the global stage.
Kerri Walsh Jennings
Walsh Jennings is one of the most accomplished athletes in beach volleyball history, earning four Olympic medals—including three straight golds in 2004, 2008, and 2012, and a bronze in 2016. Her iconic partnership with Misty May-Treanor set a new standard for excellence, making them the most successful duo the sport has ever seen. Beyond the court, Walsh Jennings has been a driving force in growing the game’s global presence and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
PARALYMPIANS
Steve Cash
Steve Cash guarded the net for Team USA from 2006 to 2018, playing a vital role in winning three Paralympic gold medals (2006, 2010, 2014) and a bronze in 2018. With lightningfast reflexes and unwavering composure under pressure, Cash was a key contributor to the team’s incredible success. He continues to be an advocate of the sport, helping grow and develop sled hockey across the nation.
Susan Hagel Hagel is a trailblazing three-sport Paralympian whose career spanned six Paralympic Games from 1976 to 1996. She competed in wheelchair basketball, track and field, and archery, winning multiple medals—including gold in wheelchair basketball in 1988 and 1992, and gold in archery in 1984. Her longevity, leadership, and groundbreaking achievements have played a key role in advancing the adaptive sports community for decades.
Marla Runyan
Runyan is the first visually impaired athlete to compete in the Olympic Games and the only U.S. athlete to compete in both the Olympics and Paralympics. She won multiple gold medals across several events at the 1992 and 1996 Paralympic Games and placed 8th in the 1500m at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Runyan also held the women’s T13 400m world record for 29 years and has continued to contribute to adaptive sports as an author and educator.
LEGENDS
Flo Hyman
Hyman was the towering heart of U.S. women’s volleyball during the 1980s, helping lead Team USA to a silver medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Revered for her grace, power, and sportsmanship, Hyman was also a vocal advocate for gender equity and athlete health. Her sudden passing in 1986 cut short a life devoted to sport, but her legacy continues to shape the culture of volleyball and the movement for fair play.
Anita DeFrantz bronze medalist in rowing from the 1976 Montreal Olympics, Anita DeFrantz has been a lifelong trailblazer. As an athlete, IOC member, and champion for equity, she has fought for Title IX enforcement, greater inclusion of women and minorities, and athlete autonomy. DeFrantz became the first woman to represent the U.S. on the IOC Executive Board and remains one of the most respected voices in the Olympic community.
TEAMS
2010 U.S. Olympic Bobsled Team
Led by driver Steve Holcomb, the fourman bobsled team captured America’s first gold medal in the event since 1948 at the Vancouver Games. With teammates Justin Olsen, Steve Mesler, and Curt Tomasevicz, their blend of precision, strength, and chemistry ended a 62-year drought and inspired a new era of U.S. sliding sports.
2004 U.S. Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team
At the Athens Paralympics, the U.S. Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team reclaimed gold with an undefeated run, redefining excellence in team strategy and athleticism. Their victory marked a return to the top of the podium after two decades and helped elevate the visibility of women’s adaptive team sports across the globe.
COACH
Mike Krzyzewski
Coach K” led the U.S. Men’s Basketball Team to gold medals in 2008, 2012, and 2016, restoring the team’s dominance and unity on the international stage. Renowned for his strategic brilliance and strong leadership, he also built a legendary coaching career at Duke University, mentoring numerous Olympians and shaping a gold standard for basketball culture.
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR
Phil Knight
co-founder of Nike, Phil Knight revolutionized athlete support through innovation, sponsorship, and global storytelling. Nike’s partnerships with U.S. Olympic and Paralympic teams have delivered cuttingedge gear and elevated athlete visibility worldwide. Knight’s visionary leadership and philanthropy have played a vital role in advancing athlete development and strengthening sports institutions from Oregon to the international stage.
THE INDUCTION CEREMONY
A private, invitation-only Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held on July 12 at the historic Broadmoor Resort and Hotel in Colorado Springs, CO. The event will honor the outstanding contributions of the 2025 inductees to Team USA and celebrate their lasting impact on Olympic and Paralympic sports.
U.S. OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC MUSEUM FESTIVAL
To mark this historic class and the fifth anniversary of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, a celebratory community festival will take place July 10–13, 2025, in Colorado Springs. Visit www.usopm.org for more information on the event.
Some highlights of the festival include:
• Athlete Meet-and-Greets: Featuring Hall of Famers Michelle Akers, Bob Beamon, Bonnie Blair, Dan O’Brien, Misty May-Treanor, and more!
• Free Museum Admission (July 12–13): To explore interactive exhibits throughout honoring Olympic and Paralympic history.
• Live Demonstrations & Community Events: Including sport exhibitions, live music, local vendors, and a celebratory parade.
Written by Amanda McGrory, PLY & USOPC Archivist
LGBTQ+ USOPA members in the news
GLAAD wrote a Paris recap, including the 19 medals that LGBTQ+ athletes representing Team USA won.
READ HERE
One of those athletes, 3x OLY and 2x bronze medalist, Erik Shoji of USA Volleyball, was recently featured on outsports.
READ HERE
As we look toward Milano-Cortina 2026, read about the 5 Team USA athletes who competed for Team LGBTQ+ in Beijing 2022.
READ HERE
2014 Figure Skating team event medalist Gracie Gold sat down with Amber Glenn to talk about many things, including LGBTQ+ representation, as Glenn seeks an Olympic berth next year.
READ HERE
STAY CONNECTED
GAMES SPOTLIGHT
Olympic Games
February 6-22, 2026
Paralympic Games
March 6-15, 2026
Milano-Cortina Fandom
– Are you going to the Games?
It seems like just yesterday that USOPA members attended the Paris Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, and stopped by the Team USA House for respite between fandom of exciting events or a night for dinner. It also seems like just yesterday that we, the Alumni Relations team and the USOPC overall, reviewed your feedback on that Paris experience, because the honesty you brought to the survey you completed is uncomfortable, necessary, and has been living rent-free in our brains since.
Since Milano-Cortina 2026 will be an unusual, widelydistributed geographically, Games experience, there will be no Team USA House in Italy, but if you’re going to be there, we want to do our best to connect you to the sports that molded you, and those that you will attend!
Please fill out this survey if you’re planning to attend the Winter Olympic or Paralympic Games in 2026. More to come on engagement opportunities stateside during Milano-Cortina as well!
As always, if you have thoughts, feedback, requests, or just want to chat, we’re here for you.
Email usopa.mailbox@usopc.org.
SPOTLIGHT
Honda
Supporting the Home Team as Founding Partner of LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games and Official Automotive Partner of Team USA
• As a Founding Partner, Honda will work closely with LA28 to deliver an accessible vehicle fleet for the Olympic and Paralympic Games using a wide range of mobility products
• Official Automotive Partnership includes Honda support of U.S. Olympic and Paralympic teams in the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 and LA28 Games
• Honda makes multi-year $1M donation dedicated to helping individuals reach their life’s potential, supporting the spirit of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement
• Partnership reflects Honda investment in America including U.S. headquarters in Los Angeles for more than 60 years and over 30,000 U.S. associates across the country
Honda will help the world’s greatest athletes pursue their dreams in 2028 as a Founding Partner of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Honda, which established its first U.S. operations in Los Angeles in June 1959, will also serve as the Official Automotive Partner of Team USA, supporting the United States Olympic and Paralympic teams during the LA28 Games and upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Athletes in attendance at the joint announcement between LA28, the USOPC, and Honda included LA28 Chief Athlete Officer Janet Evans, OLY (Swimming), in addition to U.S. Olympians and Paralympians Misty May-Treanor, OLY (Beach Volleyball), Sara Hughes, OLY (Figure Skating) and Susannah Scaroni, PLY (Para Track & Field). A large focus of the collaborative work Honda and LA28 will do in the lead-up to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2028 is developing a fleet of accessible vehicles and other mobility products, following Honda global brand slogan closely - “The Power of Dreams – how we move you.”
Read the full press release here.
The U.S. Olympians & Paralympians Relief Fund (OPRF) provides support to U.S. Olympians and Paralympians who are recovering from natural disasters and other hardships.
Our PURPOSE remains steadfast
To offer financial assistance and solidarity to U.S. Olympians and Paralympians facing difficulties or hardships (such as personal loss, injury, accident, illness, or natural disaster) in the past twelve months.
Our MISSION continues unwavering
To raise funds, guide USOPA members through the application process, and provide OPRF Financial Assistance Grants to eligible members meeting the qualifying guidelines.
For information on how to apply for a grant, visit OPR.fund.
Please contribute if you can. Here are ways to give:
- Visit OPR.fund
- Click the DONATE button and give through PayPal
- Write a check and mail it to the address below.
- Arrange for a disbursement from your donor-advised fund (DAF) or family foundation.
- Make a distribution from your IRA or another retirement account.
IN MEMORIAM
Lisa Brown-Miller Ice Hockey 1998
Kathleen Corrigan Gymnastics 1964
Helena Dupont Equestrian 1964
Charles Ferries Ski and Snowboard 1960, ‘64, Coach 1968
James Margolis Fencing 1960
Thomas Murphy Track & Field 1960
Carole Ormaca Figure Skating 1956
Rod Oshita Team Handball 1984, ‘88
Kimberly Prussia Wheelchair Basketball 1992, ‘96
Michael Rothwell Sailing 1976
“ONCE
AN OLYMPIAN OR ALWAYSPARALYMPIAN,
AN
OLYMPIAN
OR
PARALYMPIAN. NEVER FORMER, NEVER PAST”
