Due to concerns related to the spread of the coronavirus, and from the Guidance of Special Olympics International (SOI) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) has made the decision to extend its postponement of in-person events through June 30, 2020.
This postponement extends to all in-person sport, training and competition activities as well as all in-person fundraising events.
Along with this extension, SOMI has also decided to forgo its plan for an in-person, modified Summer Games event in July in favor of the first ever Special Olympics Michigan Virtual State Summer Games to be held the week of July 20.
Details for the Virtual Games are still being finalized but will include events and competitions that athletes and Unified partners can train for and compete in from the safety of home. Alongside these at-home athletic events, there will also be numerous interactive special events taking place across SOMI’s social media channels during the week of July 20 for athletes and Special Olympics volunteers and fans alike. More information on the Virtual Summer Games will be released in the very near future.
We serve a population where many are at a heightened risk due to age and/or compromised immune systems. While canceling and postponing events is truly disappointing for athletes who have trained for months to compete – as well as for the volunteers, family, friends and our staff and board who support them and look forward to cheering for them – we know that our love of sport doesn’t compare to the importance of protecting the health and safety of all involved.
Special Olympics Michigan will continue to reevaluate the situation with Special Olympics International and local health departments and will provide guidance and updated information as needed.