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Special Olympics USA Games
What started on the playing field has extended far beyond sports, creating friendships and fostering understanding, and for one Boerne police officer, it is sending him to Minnesota.
For Officer Eric Gomez, supporting Special Olympics Texas has always been about more than volunteering. It has been about building relationships, celebrating achievements, and creating opportunities for inclusion.
Gomez left Jue 19 for a weeklong trip to represent Team Texas June 20-26 at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis as part of the Unified Sports program, which brings athletes with and without intellectual disabilities together on the same team.
“What first drew me to Special Olympics Texas was the athletes,” Gomez said. “I initially got involved thinking I was there to help, but it didn’t take long to realize I was getting just as much out of the experience as they were.”
Gomez, a 15-year veteran of the Boerne Police Department, has spent much of his time helping people during difficult moments. His involvement with Special Olympics, however, has provided a different perspective on community service.
“It has helped me focus on celebrating people’s abilities, achievements, and potential,” he said. “True community service is about being present, building trust, and creating opportunities for everyone to feel valued and included.”
Gomez said Unified Sports helps break down barriers by emphasizing teamwork, friendship, and shared goals. Athletes compete together, support one another, and demonstrate what inclusion looks like both on and off the field.
“If you’ve ever met Officer Gomez, you know he has a gift for bringing people together,” Chief of Police Steve Perez said. “He embodies what community policing is all about, and his selection to Team Texas is a well-earned recognition of that commitment and a source of great pride for our department and the community we serve.”
For Gomez, representing Texas at the national games is an honor he does not take lightly.
“Team Texas represents determination, resilience, and pride,” he said. “I look forward to competing with my teammates, helping them stay motivated, and ultimately bringing home a gold medal.” One of Gomez’s favorite Special Olympics memories came while volunteering as a DJ at the Summer Games in San Antonio. Performing for more than 3,000 athletes and family members, he initially felt overwhelmed by the size of the crowd. Those nerves quickly disappeared as athletes filled the dance floor with energy and enthusiasm.
Gomez encourages those who have never attended a Special Olympic event to get involved.
“You don’t need any special experience,” he said. “Just show up, be willing to help, and take it all in. Chances are, you’ll leave wanting to come back.”
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