Following the recent Tennessee Titans vs. New England Patriots game, the field at Nissan Stadium turned into a place of camaraderie and community. It was a day full of football in Nashville as Special Olympics Tennessee and Special Olympics Massachusetts athletes came together for a Unified flag football exchange, hosted by the NFL’s Tennessee Titans. This opportunity allowed athletes to share the field and enjoy game day together.
Coaching at Nissan Stadium was a moment that felt both surreal and rewarding for Jonathan Dyer, who co-leads the Massachusetts flag football team with his wife, Kate.
“It’s like being at a fantasy camp”, Dyer explained. “It’s an incredible honor for Special Olympics to bring us out, and we have had such a great time here in Nashville at the game, competing against a very good Tennessee team.”
Dyer’s family is deeply involved in the program: his wife coaches alongside him, his son Jordan competes as an athlete, and his daughter Sariah is a Unified partner. He says sharing the experience has brought them even closer as a family.
“It gets a little competitive sometimes, but it’s a lot of fun," said Dyer. "We’ve all grown from it.”
For Jordan, stepping onto the field at Nissan Stadium was a moment he will never forget.
“I walked in and looked around, and it was intense,” Jordan Dyer said. “I’ve been on Gillette Stadium’s field before, but this felt bigger somehow”.
The weight of this trip and this game weighed heavily on Jordan as he prepared to show up for his team.
Jordan said the friendships he has made through Special Olympics are what have meant the most to him.
“My favorite part about playing on the team is the friendships and the chemistry," said Dyer. "A lot of my teammates have become close friends.”
Looking back on his favorite memories, Jordan mentioned that past tournaments in Minnesota and, now, in Tennessee are the ones that stand out the most.
“Trips like these are what you remember,” Dyer said. “It’s just about being together.”
Their team has been playing together for three years, preparing through structured practices and extra training sessions led by both athletes and partners.
“There is so much leadership and commitment on this team,” Coach Dyer said. “They’ve grown so much as both individuals and athletes”.
Tennessee walked away with the win, but both squads will be proudly representing their states at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. The day showcased the power of sport to bring families and communities from across the country together.
