by Kristine Brown
For the first time in its history, the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will be held in New Jersey, from June 14 – 21, at sites throughout Mercer County – including Rider University. Nearly 3,500 athletes will travel to the Garden State from all over the country to complete in 16 Olympic-style team and individual sports, with the support of 1,000 coaches, 10,000 volunteers and an anticipated 70,000 spectators.
Several of the sporting competitions for this year’s Special Olympics USA Games will take place at Rider, including men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball. Additionally, approximately half of all the athletes from across the country will also be housed at the University.
President Rozanski said, “I know I speak on behalf of everyone at the university when I say we are so excited to welcome these extraordinary athletes to our campus in June. It will be a remarkable week of celebration, competition and triumph for these individuals who have worked so hard to accomplish their goals of becoming a Special Olympic athlete. Personally, I look forward to meeting the athletes and watching them compete.”
According to Special Olympics, the 2014 USA Games will be the largest, most dynamic and most innovative Games in its history. In addition to the many showcased sports, athletes will participate in a spectacular Opening Ceremony at Prudential Center in Newark, and a Closing Ceremony at Sun National Bank Center in Trenton.
More Information
For more information about the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games, how to attend or volunteer to assist, visit www.2014specialolympics.org.