On May 12, 2012, the University of Hartford will host the Special Olympic Connecticut Eastern Regional Games. About 600 athletes, 200 coaches, and more than 400 volunteers will participate in three sports: athletic and aquatics. This is the ninth year that the University will host these Games.
Opening Ceremonies will start at 9:30 a.m. at the University Sports Center. Opening Ceremonies and Aquatics competitions will be held at the University and athletics competition held at Hartford Public High School. Current Miss Connecticut Logan West will be a guest speaker and awards presenter. In addition, both venues will have an Olympic Town area where athletes can enjoy music, dancing, and arts and crafts. The event is open free to the public. Hoffman Auto is the Games Presenting Sponsor and Lincoln Waste Solutions is a Silver Medal sponsor.
More than a dozen University staff members serve on the Games’ Organizing Committee. University President Walter Harrison is a strong supporter of Special Olympics Connecticut and has been recognized for his efforts by the organizations Board of Directors. This year’s co-chairs are Christine Grant and Susan Fitzgerald. The 2012 Eastern Regional Games will be the largest Regional Competition this year and most will advance on the Special Olympic Connecticut Summer Games June 8-10 in New Haven.
More than 400 volunteers will be needed to make these games a success. Volunteer opportunities are available in both sport and non-sport areas. All registered volunteers will receive lunch and a Games Volunteer T-shirt. Volunteer applications are available by calling 860 887-1555 or by going to www.hartford.edu/soct. Volunteer pre-registration is due by May 4.
Events sponsors are also needed. Interested companies can receive more information by contact the Eastern Region Office at 860 887-1555 or by e-mail Marc Mercadante or marcm@soct.org.
Since 1969, Special Olympics Connecticut (SOCT) has provided year-round sports training and athletic competition to children and adults with intellectual disabilities through local, regional and state programs. SOCT serves 6,900 athletes throughout the state. Over 10,000 general volunteers and 900 volunteer coaches are involved with SOCT programs statewide
