By Adonis Watt
From March 6-7 over 1,500 athletes will be competing in the state basketball and state cheer for the Special Olympics of Arizona. Presenting these state-wide games will be the Phoenix Suns Phoenix Mercury Foundation. The competitions will be taking place at the Arizona Athletic Grounds Sports and Entertainment Complex. The basketball events will be taking place on Friday the sixth, and Saturday the seventh from approximately 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cheer competition will be held on Saturday from 10 A.m. to 2 P.m. In addition to both competitions happening Saturday, at 8:30 a.m. there will be a small opening ceremony with athletes and the Phoenix Suns Phoenix Mercury foundation, with a special check presentation to Special Olympics Arizona.
This is the 50th year of Special Olympics Arizona. In 1975 the first SOAZ competition was first held. This was a one-day track and field event with 100 athletes and 20 volunteers. SOAZ has grown to offer 21 sports as well as local practices leading to over 400 regional, and five state level competition. Currently 19,000 volunteers help support 18,500 athletes annually.
The purpose of Special Olympics Arizona is to give children and adults with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to live fulfilling lives. This goal is accomplished by through health, leadership, and advocacy programs. In addition, year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports is provided. The special Olympics has always
represented more than athletic skill or achievement. It brings a sense of pride and community to everybody involved, from the athletes, families, volunteers and everybody in between.
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