Hometown: Lawrence
Sport: Flag Football
Colin Hughes is headed to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota—fulfilling a dream more than two decades in the making. Colin has been a Special Olympics athlete for about 23 years, starting at age 10 in Franklin County before continuing his journey in Douglas County. He will represent Kansas in flag football, bringing heart and sportsmanship to the national stage.
Special Olympics has shaped Colin in powerful ways. Through sports, he has built confidence, formed close friendships, and learned that winning isn’t everything—giving your best effort and cheering others on matters just as much. Being active through sports has made him stronger physically and mentally, improved his health, and taught him how rewarding it is to support teammates and competitors alike.
Along the way, Colin has worked hard to overcome challenges like shyness, self-doubt, and learning to accept that not every competition ends with a medal. He’s learned to feel proud of his effort, even when things don’t go perfectly, and to try new things without fear of embarrassment.
Some of Colin’s proudest moments include making his high school bowling team through Special Olympics and earning a varsity letter, scrimmaging on the University of Kansas basketball court at Allen Field House—and even sinking a three-point shot at the buzzer. He’s also proud of working in different community jobs, playing drums in the school band, and continuing to improve his reading and writing skills with the help of staff and friends.
Outside of sports, Colin stays busy helping take care of farm animals at Midnight Farm, participating in 4-H and Boy Scouts, volunteering at the Humane Society, making jewelry on his loom, and helping prepare community Thanksgiving dinners. He enjoys watching movies, talking on the phone, spending time with friends, and supporting his girlfriend.
Colin says his biggest inspiration is his mom, who has always helped him learn new things, understand emotions, stay calm, and focus on being thankful for the good in his life. He also looks up to Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes, who inspire him to be a better football player.
One of his favorite accomplishments is making three-point shots on the KU Jayhawks’ court at Allen Field House. He’s also proud of the ways he helps others in everyday life—holding doors, helping people in stores, and even staying with a woman who fell on the sidewalk until help arrived.
As he prepares for the USA Games, Colin is working hard to stay in shape by practicing flag football, participating in other Special Olympics sports, walking regularly, losing weight, and joining a KU fitness program through his day program.
This will be Colin’s first time competing at the USA Games. He’s most excited about fulfilling a lifelong dream, spending time with his teammates, and meeting athletes from across the country.
With determination, kindness, and a passion for sport, Colin Hughes is ready to represent Kansas with pride at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.
