Breaking Barriers: Empower Sports Network Athlete Selected for 2026 Special Olympics USA Games

By Empower Sports Network Staff

When Dante Canzona first walked into the weight room in September 2024, few could have predicted how quickly he would rise through the ranks of powerlifting. Less than a year later, the Monmouth County athlete has been selected to represent Team New Jersey at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.

It’s an extraordinary achievement for Dante, who will compete in the sport of Powerlifting—a discipline that demands not only strength but also focus, determination, and mental toughness.

From Newcomer to National Stage

Dante’s journey began with curiosity and courage. He entered his first competition at The Pit in Eatontown in February 2025, where he gained valuable experience and a taste of competition. Two months later, he built on that foundation at the Special Olympics Sectional Meet, a performance that earned him a place at the New Jersey Special Olympics Summer Games at The College of New Jersey.

It was at the Summer Games that Dante’s potential came into sharp focus. His lifts demonstrated growing technical ability, but more importantly, his resilience and sportsmanship caught the eye of coaches and evaluators. After the Games, he was invited to try out for Team New Jersey—an opportunity he seized with determination.

A Defining Moment

During the tryouts, Dante delivered one of the strongest performances of his young career. But what stood out most was not just the numbers on the bar.

“Dante did an amazing job,” said Sam Kiningham, Founder of Empower Sports Network and Dante’s coach. “This was the first time I saw him really shine. Not only did he perform incredibly on the platform, but he supported the other competitors as well, showing the true spirit of a teammate.”

That balance of performance and character sealed Dante’s selection.

Growth Beyond the Platform

Dante’s rise has not been without challenges. In his early competitions, the nerves of performing under the spotlight made it difficult for him to stay composed. But with each training session and meet, he grew stronger—not just physically, but mentally.

“I told him, you’re only competing against yourself—not the other competitors, and not the crowd,” recalled Kiningham. “Since then, Dante has grown tremendously as both a powerlifter and as a person.”

This transformation is what makes Dante’s story so powerful. His journey reflects the very mission of Empower Sports Network: creating opportunities for adaptive athletes to push limits, break barriers, and redefine what’s possible.

A Symbol of Inclusion

Dante’s selection to Team New Jersey is more than a personal victory—it’s a community triumph. It represents the strength of adaptive athletics and the importance of creating spaces where all athletes can thrive.

“Dante embodies what Empower Sports Network stands for,” said Kiningham. “His achievement is proof of what can happen when athletes are given the chance to shine.”

Looking Ahead to Minnesota

The Special Olympics USA Games—set for June 20–26, 2026—will bring together more than 4,000 athletes from across the country. For Dante, it’s an opportunity to showcase his growth and represent not just New Jersey, but also the inclusive athletic spirit fostered by Empower Sports Network.

As he prepares for the national stage, Dante’s journey is a reminder of why organizations like Empower Sports Network exist: to empower athletes, build confidence, and inspire communities.

Join the Journey

Empower Sports Network invites the community to celebrate Dante’s accomplishment and support the ongoing growth of adaptive athletes in New Jersey.

Follow Dante’s training updates and learn more about the mission of Empower Sports Network on Instagram @empowersportsnetworknj or at www.empowersportsnetwork.org