When it comes to powerlifting, there are many kinds of strength.

Meet the four Minnesota powerlifters and their coach who will represent the state at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis with strength, camaraderie, and heart.
Special Olympics Powerlifting athletes with Affinity Plus employees and Chip mascot
When it comes to powerlifting, there are many kinds of strength. There’s the kind that lives in the athletes’ muscles, and the kind that burns in their hearts with passion for their sport. And for Minnesota’s Powerlifting delegation at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, there’s also strength in supporting one another and their opponents.

As proud sponsor of the USA Games and official powerlifting sponsor, Affinity Plus is honored to be part of the teamwork, camaraderie and friendship these athletes bring to their sport.

“I’m looking forward to supporting my team and supporting everyone else and being a fan,” said Dimitri Johnson, one of Minnesota’s powerlifters. 

2026 Special Olympics USA Games: Minneapolis
The USA Games take place in Minneapolis this June, Minnesota will proudly send a delegation of 4 powerlifters. 
  • Josef, aka “Brosef” 
  • Patrick, aka “The Beast”
  • Ben, aka “Big Bad Ben,”
  • Dimitri, aka “The Hulk.”

And don’t forget Coach David!

This team of strong Minnesotans will represent the state at the USA Games Powerlifting event, where they will compete in bench press, deadlift and squat. This team has put in the work to lift more than their competitors, and they’re also ready to uplift the competition at the same time. 

We invite you to stay tuned to our website for inspiring stories about each of the powerlifting athletes representing Minnesota as they prepare for this once in a lifetime opportunity!