Following a successful inaugural year in 2023, Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) is excited to announce the return of the November Classic, set to take place in the Metro-Detroit area on November 8, 2024. The event will feature state-level competition for more than 1,100 athletes and Unified partners from across Michigan.
The November Classic will bring together a diverse group of athletes, emphasizing inclusion and teamwork. This year, the event features:
- Unified Bowling: A competition with 384 athletes and Unified partners participating in team and doubles competition.
- Flag Football: A tournament featuring 7 traditional teams and 6 Unified teams (athletes with and without intellectual disabilities), with a total of 135 athletes and Unified partners.
- Poly Hockey: An adaptive sport similar to floor hockey, comprised of 50 teams and 592 athletes. Additionally, another 21 skills athletes will practice sport fundamentals and technique.
In total, the November Classic will host 1,132 athletes and Unified partners, contributing to a total delegation of 1,407 participants, all dedicated to promoting the values of inclusion, respect, and perseverance through sport.
“The November Classic is not just a showcase of athletic talent; it’s a celebration of community and the power of sports to bring people together,” said Nick Caudle, Senior Manager of Sports & Training for Special Olympics Michigan. “We are thrilled to see so many athletes, families, and supporters come together for a day filled with competition and camaraderie.”
Poly Hockey and Flag Football tournaments will be held at the UWM Sports Complex in Pontiac starting at 10:00 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. Unified Bowling begins at 10:00 a.m. at Thunderbowl Lanes in Allen Park. Spectators are encouraged to attend and cheer on the athletes as they demonstrate their skills and sportsmanship.
For more information about the November Classic, visit www.somi.org. Photos from the 2023 November Classic can be viewed here.