2026 USA Games – Team Profiles

Jonathan Embler, Head of Delegation

Jonathan Embler is a veteran leader for Team Nevada who brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his role as the Head of Delegation. In his free time, Jonathan is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys both watching and participating in a wide variety of athletic activities, while also taking the time to satisfy his curiosity by learning about history. He looks up to the legendary Dean Smith, the former coach of the UNC Tar Heels basketball team, drawing inspiration from his coaching philosophy and leadership.

As he prepares for the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota, Jonathan is most looking forward to witnessing the intense competitions and the incredible effort put forth by the athletes. He especially values the emotional connection between coaches and their teams, finding great joy in seeing the immense pride on coaches’ faces as their athletes compete on the national stage. Jonathan is a premier choice to represent Nevada due to his extensive background and proven track record, having previously served in five other USA Games. His deep experience ensures that the delegation is lead by someone who truly understands the scope and spirit of the event.

Malia Trunk, Assistant Head of Delegation

Malia Trunk is a dedicated leader from Lyon County who will be serving as the Assistant Head of Delegation (AHOD) for Team Nevada at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors at the lake and cherishes spending quality time with her family and friends.

As she prepares for the upcoming national competition, Malia is most looking forward to the experience of attending her first USA Games. She is eager to accompany Team Nevada in her leadership role and finds great fulfillment in watching the athletes embrace this unique opportunity. Malia is an excellent choice to represent her state because she balances an organized and laid-back approach with a deep sense of compassion and understanding. A true team player, she is committed to supporting the delegation with a positive and supportive attitude.

Cassi Gonzales, Medical

Caasi Gonzales is a proud representative of Team Nevada for the 2026 USA Games, serving a vital role on the delegation’s medical support staff. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Caasi is deeply passionate about her community and her home state, making her a natural fit to represent Nevada on a national stage. In her free time, she stays active through dancing and rock climbing, and she cherishes moments spent with her dog, friends, and family.

A dedicated sports fan, Caasi looks up to hockey player Reilly Smith and enthusiastically cheers for the Vegas Golden Knights with a “GO KNIGHTS GO” spirit. As she prepares for the 2026 USA Games, she is most looking forward to the opportunity to meet new athletes, support the team during the competitions, and experience the excitement of a new city.

Sherry McClure, Washoe County – Head Coach

Sherry McClure is an experienced leader from Washoe County who will be serving as a coach for the bowling team at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. In her free time, she enjoys a variety of creative and active hobbies, including crafting, bowling, reading, and playing with her dog.

Looking ahead to the national competition, Sherry is most looking forward to the social and community aspects of the event, particularly meeting athletes from across the country. She is an excellent choice to represent Team Nevada because of her strong organizational skills and her deep care for people. Her flexibility and dedication to her athletes ensure a supportive and well-managed environment for the team as they compete on the national stage.

Brittany Conatser, Lyon County

Brittany Conatser is a talented athlete from Fernley, Nevada, who brings a wealth of experience and a positive attitude to Team Nevada. Outside of her competitive life, Brittany enjoys expressing her creativity through various arts and crafts projects and finds peace in a good book. She draws her strength and inspiration from her parents, looking up to her mom and dad as her primary role models. As she prepares for the 2026 USA Games, Brittany’s primary focus is the joy of the experience; she is looking forward to the simple thrill of having fun and celebrating the spirit of the Games.

What truly sets Brittany apart as a representative for her state is her impeccable character on the field of play. She prides herself on her great sportsmanship, consistently demonstrating respect for her teammates and competitors alike. With a decorated history that includes competing at the 2015 World Games in Los Angeles, Brittany’s combination of seasoned skill and a fair-play mindset makes her a perfect ambassador for Nevada.

Reggie Daniel, Clark County – Henderson

Reginald Daniel is an enthusiastic athlete from Clark County who will be representing Team Nevada in bowling at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. When he is not on the lanes, Reginald enjoys staying active by dancing—especially to the “Cha Cha Slide”—and relaxing while playing with his tablet. Within the sports world, he draws inspiration from his dad and basketball legend LeBron James.

As he prepares for the national stage, Reginald is most looking forward to the social experience and hanging out with his fellow co-bowlers. He is a fantastic choice to represent his state because of his vibrant personality and dedication to his teammates. He prides himself on being friendly, enthusiastic, and a true team player who brings positive energy to every competition.

Robert McClure, Washoe County

Robert McClure is a dedicated athlete from Washoe County who will be representing Team Nevada in bowling at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. In his free time, he enjoys staying creative with Diamond Dotz, watching movies, and playing with his puppy. Within the sports world, Robert looks up to DiJonai Carrington of the Connecticut Sun (formerly of the Minnesota Lynx), a connection that fuels his excitement for the upcoming national competition.

As he prepares to head to Minnesota, Robert is most looking forward to the possibility of meeting WNBA stars while at the Games. He is an excellent choice to represent his state because he brings a combination of hard work and a positive spirit to the team. Describing himself as friendly, helpful to others, and a practitioner of great sportsmanship, Robert embodies the true values of a Team Nevada athlete.

Krystelle Rodriguez, Clark County – Henderson

Krystelle Rodriguez is a focused athlete from Clark County who will be representing Team Nevada in Bowling at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. In her free time, she enjoys relaxing and watching movies. While she does not look up to anyone in particular in the sports world, she maintains a strong competitive drive and a history of success.

Heading into the 2026 USA Games, Krystelle is most looking forward to the opportunity to compete in bowling on the national stage. She is a fantastic choice to represent her state because she brings a proven track record of success to the team, noting that she has competed in the past and has already experienced being part of a victorious team.

Chris Meservey, Clark County -Las Vegas – Head Coach

Coach Chris Meservey is a dedicated leader for Team Nevada who balances a passion for high-level coaching with a deep love for his community. In his free time, Chris stays highly active, focusing on travel, business ventures, and sports, while always prioritizing quality time with his family. He draws inspiration from NBA legend Magic Johnson, admiring the iconic athlete not just for his skill, but for the infectious energy and constant smile he brings to every endeavor—qualities that Chris strives to emulate in his own coaching style.

As he prepares for the 2026 USA Games, Chris is most excited about the personal connections formed during the competition. He is looking forward to the joy of watching his athletes compete on a national stage and values the opportunity to talk with them and support their journey throughout the event. Chris is a standout choice to represent Nevada because he blends technical expertise as a great swim coach with a heart for people. Defined by his kindness, positive attitude, and extensive experience, he is committed to fostering an environment where every athlete feels seen, supported, and ready to succeed.

Robert Doyle, Clark County – Las Vegas

Robert Doyle is a multi-talented athlete from Las Vegas who will be representing Team Nevada in swimming at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. An active individual, Robert fills his free time with sports and entertainment, including playing basketball, going for runs, and watching wrestling. He draws inspiration from basketball legends Kevin Durant and Kobe Bryant.

Looking ahead to the national competition, Robert is most excited about having fun, seeing the athlete dorms, and attending the dance—for which he already has his suit ready to go. He is an excellent choice to represent Nevada because of his winning spirit and positive character. Describing himself as funny and nice, Robert is a competitor who loves to win while always maintaining a heart for helping others.

Christine McCullough, Clark County – Las Vegas

Christine McCullough is a versatile athlete from Las Vegas, Nevada, who enjoys staying active and creative in her downtime. When she isn’t training, she loves spending time outdoors, whether it is camping or simply enjoying nature, and she often channels her creativity into making bracelets. A dedicated sports fan, Christine looks up to AJ Cole of the Las Vegas Raiders as a source of inspiration.

Representing the Aquatics Team for Nevada at the 2026 USA Games, Christine is most excited about the social aspects of the competition, specifically the opportunity to meet new friends and connect with coaches from across the country. She is an excellent choice to represent her state because she prides herself on her great sportsmanship and her natural desire to be helpful to others. With a long history of participation in the Special Olympics and a silver medal from the 2019 World Games, Christine brings a wealth of experience and a supportive spirit to the team.

Katie Patrick, Douglas County

Katie Patrick is a dedicated athlete from Douglas County who will be representing Team Nevada in swimming at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. In her free time, she enjoys relaxing by watching TV, specifically the show “Friends”. In the sports world, Katie finds inspiration in NFL quarterback Brock Purdy. As she prepares for the national competition, she is most looking forward to the swimming events. Katie is a great choice to represent her state because of her confidence and talent in the water, simply noting that she should be chosen because she “swims good”.

Joey Thompson, Douglas County

Joey Thompson is a dedicated swimmer representing Douglas County. In his free time, he enjoys staying active by walking dogs and also loves playing video games. Within the sports world, he draws inspiration from Sha. Looking ahead to the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota, Joey is most excited about the opportunity to compete in swimming and the chance to see the city of Minneapolis. He is a great choice to represent Team Nevada because of his confidence in the water and his skills as a good swimmer


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Andrew Rasmus, Clark County – Henderson – Head Coach

Andrew Rasmus is a dedicated and empathetic coach for Team Nevada who stays physically and mentally engaged through a wide range of hands-on hobbies. In his free time, he enjoys working out, cycling, and tackling repair projects or hands-on tasks in their garage. Andrew also values deep personal connections, traveling the world, and pushing their limits by competing in Spartan Races. This passion for sport is rooted in the inspiration of their grandfather, a standout collegiate athlete in Iowa and a “hometown hero” who led by example. His unwavering support gave this coach the courage to join track and field in grade school—a life-changing decision that eventually fostered their deep passion for coaching.

As the 2026 USA Games approach, he is eagerly anticipating the energy of the opening ceremony, but the primary focus is on the athletes themselves. He is most excited about working one-on-one with athletes and their families to create individualized plans that improve physical performance both on and off the track. Andrew looks forward to seeing the results of this hard work shine while proudly representing the State of Nevada and the intellectual disabilities community.

What makes him a truly great choice to represent Nevada is their unique perspective and deep-seated empathy. Having grown up with a severe speech impediment, he understands the feeling of being seen as “different” and have used that experience to build a coaching philosophy centered on perseverance and inclusion. Andrew takes great pride in creating a safe, empowering environment where athletes feel supported to reach their current goals and are never afraid to set new ones.

Brandy Goodson, Lyon County

Brandy Goodson, a dedicated athlete from Fernley, Nevada, brings 15 years of experience and a champion’s spirit to the 2026 USA Games. Known for her silver-medal performance at the 2023 World Games in Berlin, Brandy continues to find inspiration in her role model, professional runner Ryan Hall. Beyond the track, she is a lover of the outdoors who enjoys fishing, hiking, and walking, as well as relaxing with movies or a competitive board game with her family.

As she heads to the USA Games, Brandy is most excited to explore new horizons, participate in unique events, and build lifelong friendships. She is an exceptional choice to represent Nevada not just for her athletic talent, but for her character; she is a natural communicator who makes new friends with ease. A true leader and certified Global Messenger, Brandy’s primary goal is always to encourage those around her to reach their full potential and do their absolute best.

Max Hyderkhan, Clark County – Henderson

Maxwell Hyderkhan is a dedicated Track and Field athlete from Clark County who will be representing Special Olympics Nevada at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. When he isn’t training, Maxwell stays active by working out at the gym and also enjoys relaxing with movies during his free time. Within the sports world, he finds great inspiration in global soccer superstar Lionel Messi.

Looking ahead to the national competition, Maxwell is particularly focused on his athletic performance and is looking forward to participating in the shot put event. He is a fantastic choice to represent his state because of his genuine passion for athletics; he simply loves sports and thrives on the opportunity to participate in them.

Hyrum Knotts, Elko County

Hyrum Knotts is a dedicated athlete from Washoe County who will be representing Team Nevada in track and field at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. When he isn’t training, Hyrum stays active with a variety of hobbies, including playing video games, fishing, and participating in other sports, but he also makes plenty of time to play with his cat. In the world of professional sports, he finds inspiration in the skill and charisma of soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo and wrestling legend John Cena.

As he prepares for the national stage, Hyrum is most looking forward to having fun, meeting new friends, and the thrill of competition. He stands out as an excellent choice to represent Nevada because of his relentless work ethic and dedication, simply stating that he is a great choice because he always works hard to achieve his goals.

Kiana Ocampo, Clark County – Henderson

Kiana Ocampo is a multifaceted athlete from Clark County who will be representing Team Nevada in Athletics at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota. She leads a vibrant life outside of sports, enjoying activities such as singing, listening to music, exercising, and watching movies. Kiana also expresses her creativity by making necklaces and bracelets, and she enjoys spending time on her phone playing games. While she doesn’t have one specific sports figure she looks up to, she finds deep inspiration in watching both college and Olympic-level track and field.

As she prepares for the national stage, Kiana is particularly excited about the travel involved in flying to the event and the opportunity to compete. She is an excellent choice to represent Nevada because of her genuine love for competition and her resilient spirit. Kiana prides herself on her ability to persevere and her dedication to always trying her hardest.