Special Olympics Returns to University

The University of Hartford, in conjunction with Weaver High School and Watkinson School, will host the Special Olympics Connecticut Eastern Regional Games on Saturday, May 21.

This will be the second year in a row that the university is hosting the event. More than 1,200 athletes, along with their families and coaches, and hundreds of volunteers are expected to take part.

Volunteers are still needed for a wide range of assignments. To see a list of volunteer opportunities, or to register as a volunteer, please visit www.hartford.edu/soct.

The festivities will begin with Opening Ceremonies at the Sports Center, starting at 9 a.m. The Opening Ceremonies will include the procession of athletes, the lighting of the Olympic flame, and a performance by the Bloomfield High School Concert Band, Jazz Band and the Bloomfield Brass.

Competition will start at approximately 10 a.m. Athletes will compete in aquatics, soccer, track and field, tennis, and wheelchair and adaptive sports.

The tennis and aquatics competitions will take place at the university. Weaver High School will host the track and field competitions, wheelchair and adaptive events, and Watkinson School will host the soccer competition.

The area behind the University of Hartford Sports Center will be transformed into an “Olympic Village,” featuring arts, crafts, music, and a variety of fun activities.

This event is the largest of the Special Olympics regional games in Connecticut, comprising athletes and teams from Hartford, Tolland, Windham, Middlesex, and New London counties.

For more information about the Special Olympics Connecticut Eastern Regional Games, go to www.hartford.edu/soct, or contact Fred Jenoure at 860.768.4894 or jenoure@hartford.edu.