JEFERSON CITY, Mo – Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO) is proud to announce that six of its athletes have been selected as flag bearers for a FIFA World Cup match on Friday, July 3. Chase Hitchcock, Cody Colehour, Justine Stine, Kaien Weikel, Lana White, and Oscar Salvatierra will represent the Special Olympics movement on one of the world’s biggest sporting stages. This moment that speaks to the power of inclusion and the limitless potential of every Special Olympics athlete. The six athletes were selected after completing coursework through the Coca-Cola Future Careers Academy, a program tied to FIFA World Cup 26. While a number of SOMO athletes completed the program, these six were ultimately chosen for their outstanding commitment and engagement with Special Olympics Missouri, their positive demeanors, and the example they set for peers and communities throughout the state. “We are so grateful to Coca-Cola for creating this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our athletes. The FIFA World Cup is one of the most-watched events in the world, and having our athletes at the center of that sends a powerful message that people with intellectual disabilities belong everywhere. We could not be prouder to watch them represent Special Olympics Missouri on a global stage.” — Katie Balint, Unified Champion Schools Manager, Special Olympics Missouri Each of the six flag bearers leads by example on and off the field, consistently demonstrating kindness, respect, and encouragement toward those around them. Special Olympics Missouri is incredibly grateful to Coca-Cola for providing this opportunity. Being part of an event as significant as the FIFA World Cup showcases the power of inclusion and demonstrates that people with intellectual disabilities belong in every space, including the world’s biggest sporting events. This opportunity shines a spotlight on the talents, leadership, and contributions of Special Olympics athletes while helping to break down barriers and shift public perceptions. For Special Olympics Missouri, the FIFA World Cup stage is an opportunity to share the organization’s mission with a global audience and to highlight the life-changing impact of building inclusive communities. It is a reminder of the importance of expanding opportunities for individuals of all abilities and an invitation for others to join the movement for inclusion. Special Olympics Missouri Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO) is a year-round program of sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Thousands of athletes participate in 12 Olympic-type sports statewide, gaining opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy through sport. SOMO proudly returns 86% of every dollar raised directly to program services and is recognized with a Better Business Bureau A+ Charity Accreditation, GuideStar Gold Seal, and Charity Navigator four-star rating. Learn more at www.somo.org and follow Special Olympics Missouri on social media. | 