Special Olympics athlete scores spot on Team New Jersey for USA Games

LAWRENCEVILLE, New Jersey (WPVI) -- There were no dry eyes when Alexa Valletta found out her dream came true. The soccer star from Glassboro will soon compete for Team New Jersey at the Special Olympics USA Games.

Valletta is one of ten incredible athletes on the soccer team who have been practicing week after week since the fall of 2025.

They will put their hard work to the test at the USA Games, which takes place June 20-26, 2026, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event recurs every four years.

Across all sports within Team New Jersey, a majority of the 100-plus athletes will compete at this level for the first time.

Valletta hopes her story will inspire others to take a shot at their dreams.



Watch the video above to see her story.

To keep up with Team New Jersey, visit their website.

RELATED: 'Barista Jake' brews opportunities for students with special needs