Hub City Special Olympics Inaugural Games, Sept 19

Hub City Special Olympics Inaugural Games, Sept. 19 Athletes, volunteers, citizens invited to participate in regional fall games

Prompted by input from parents, teachers and community organizers, the Special Olympics games have returned to the Pine Belt after a decade-long hiatus. Special Olympics Mississippi’s newly re-formed Hub City Region, based in Hattiesburg, is comprised of Forrest, Lamar, Marion, Walthall and Perry Counties.

Hub City Special Olympics Inaugural Games are slated to begin Saturday Sept. 19 at Hattiesburg High School’s athletic complex where opening ceremonies will commence at 9 a.m.

“Everyone deserves an opportunity to practice, play, win or lose together,” said Lori Potter, Hub City Special Olympics regional director. “Every child needs to know what it’s like to be a part of a team…what it’s like to compete, and get excited and have something to look forward to.”

Athletes ages 8 and up are eligible to participate in the games. Sports include croquet, horseshoes, softball, team softball, soccer and flag football for the Inaugural Games, with track and field, bocce, bowling, powerlifting, tennis, golf, swimming, volleyball and sailing set for the Summer Games.

Hub City Special Olympics will also set up an Olympic village where individuals may partake in carnival activities, face painting, games and arts and crafts.

The deadline for athlete registration is Friday, August 21. The deadline for volunteer registration is Friday, Sept. 11.

Applications are available at Hattiesburg City Hall; by request via Facebook at Hub City Special Olympics; or by emailing somshubcity@gmail.com.