Empower Sports Network Athlete Dante Canzona Recognized by Freehold Borough for Special Olympics Achievement

Freehold Borough recently recognized Empower Sports Network athlete Dante Canzona for an incredible accomplishment—being selected to represent Team New Jersey at the Special Olympics USA Games.

For Dante, this recognition is not just about one moment. It represents years of dedication, growth, and a passion for athletics that continues to drive him forward every single day.

A 2019 graduate of Freehold Borough High School, Dante has always been involved in sports. Over time, he found his true passion in powerlifting—a sport that demands discipline, focus, and relentless effort. Once he discovered it, there was no turning back.

For the past two years, Dante has been competing in powerlifting, consistently pushing himself to improve. In September 2024, he began training with Empower Sports Network under Coach Sam Kiningham. From day one, his commitment stood out. Dante approached every workout with energy and curiosity—always asking questions and always striving to get better.

Over the years, Coach Kiningham has worked with athletes of all abilities, including high-level competitors who have gone on to compete at top colleges. What makes Dante special isn’t just his physical strength; it’s his mindset. His work ethic, consistency, and determination to improve every single day place him among the most dedicated athletes.

But Dante’s impact goes far beyond the weight room.

He has taken on a leadership role within Empower Sports Network, helping grow the organization and contributing to its mission. He is also the creator and host of his own podcast, Dante the Sports Guy, where he continues to build confidence, communication skills, and leadership through media.

This combination of athletic excellence and leadership is exactly why Dante’s recognition by Freehold Borough means so much. It highlights not only his achievements in sports, but also the person he has become.

Dante represents what Empower Sports Network is all about—opportunity, growth, and leadership through athletics.

As he prepares to compete at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, Dante carries with him the support of his town, his team, and the entire Empower Sports Network community.

And this is only the beginning.