NPPA student chapter of the National Press Photographers Association ritnppa@gmail.com

2026 Photo Story Honorable Mention

A maximum of 12 images compiled in a picture story or essay that reflects the human experience.

Third Place: Carlos Sanchez

Untitled – The Beccarelli Family continues their 33 year legacy at the New York Special Olympics. For thirty-three years, Al Becarelli has coached his sons, Jonathan and Aaron, guiding them through a lifetime of competitive excellence across a variety of sports including: soccer, floorball, track and field, basketball, and tennis. In the 2026 New York State Special Olympics, the Becarelli brothers continued to prove their versatility across a staggering array of sports. On this frigid 20-degree day the brothers competed in the 50 and 100 meter races for cross country skiing, the family trio continued to build upon their legacy, bringing home 2 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze medals.

From left, Johnathan Gianakouros, Aaron Beccarelli, Jonathon Beccarelli, and Al Beccarelli, ride the escalator to the Opening Ceremonies at Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center in Rochester, N.Y. on Feb. 20, 2026.

Al Beccarelli shakes police officer’s hand as they enter the opening ceremonies at Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center in Rochester, N.Y. on Feb. 20, 2026.

Hudson Valley cross-country coach Al Beccarelli boarding the bus with athletes Jonathon Beccarelli, Johnathan Gianakouros, and Aaron Beccarelli before the cross-country skiing competition at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.

Al Beccarelli laughs with Aaron Beccarelli as he helps Jonathan Gianakouros put on his bib during cross-country skiing competition at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.

Jonathan Gianakouros and Aaron Beccarelli break for lunch during cross-country skiing competition at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.

Head Coach, Al Beccarelli’s name tag, Al has been coaching for 33 years, he started coaching when his oldest son Jonathan began competing in 1991 during cross-country skiing competition at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.

Jonathon Beccarelli races in the 100 meter division 2 cross country race. Winning Gold during cross-country skiing competition at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.

From left, Aaron and Jonathon Beccarelli prepare for the mens 50 meter final respectively earning gold and silver. during cross-country skiing competition at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.
Al Beccarelli Cheers for Aaron and Johnathon Beccarelli in the mens 50 meter final at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.
Jonathon Beccarelli recieves gold medal for the 100 meter cross country race at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.
Aaron and Jonathon Beccarelli take off their ski boots after competition at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.
Al, Jonathon, and Aaron converse after their races at Bristol Mountain Nordic Center in Canandaigua, N.Y. on Feb. 21, 2026.