At Special Olympics Wisconsin, we look forward to June every year as it brings our athletes’ tremendous abilities to center stage at the State Summer Games. On June 9, over 1,500 athletes will compete in athletics, aquatics, soccer and powerlifting for 3 days of absolute excitement in Stevens Point!
Every race, every game and every competition represents many weeks of training, preparation and dedication on the part of our athletes, coaches and volunteers. Spectators will witness our athletes defying odds, shattering records and demonstrating courage and sportsmanship as they’ve never seen before. Donate your time and see a first hand glimpse to what our athletes can accomplish and volunteer at the Summer Games.
At the Opening Ceremony, Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes will joyously walk in the Parade of Athletes where they’ll receive high fives and good luck wishes from fans, volunteers and law enforcement officers. Additionally, Chairman of Special Olympics, Tim Shriver, will address our athletes and honor Dennis Alldridge, Special Olympics Wisconsin CEO, on his retirement and commitment to our mission for the past 27 years.
“Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics, attended my first State Summer Games as CEO of Special Olympics Wisconsin. It was fitting to that her son, Tim, will be a special part of my last Summer Games,” stated Dennis Alldridge.
Incoming CEO, Kathleen Roach, will also be introduced at the Opening Ceremony.
During his visit, Tim will additionally meet with athletes, friends and families. All events are free and open to the public. Opening Ceremony will begin on Thursday, June 9th at 6:30 p.m at the UW-Stevens Point Colman Track featuring the Parade of Athletes, entertainment and the lighting of the Special Olympics Cauldron. In case of inclement weather the Opening Ceremony will be held in the Multi Activity Center.
Prior to the start of the Opening Ceremony, law enforcement officers and civilians will carry the Flame of Hope from all corners of Wisconsin in the Final Leg of the 30th Anniversary of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, June 6 – 9. The Final Leg will have runs and bike rides occurring in more than 30 Wisconsin communities, all converging in Stevens Point to kick-off the Opening Ceremony of the State Summer Games on Thursday evening, June 9.
Sports competition and free health screenings for athletes will kick off Friday, June 10th at 8:30 a.m.
