SODE wraps up 2024 Summer Games

Special olympics athletes line up in the spots they finished to receive their medals. Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Delaware

The Special Olympics of Delaware (SODE) wrapped up their 2024 summer games this weekend at the University of Delaware. Nearly 700 athletes competed, 160 coaches and 100 unified partners were part of the 2024 Summer Games. 

Before the games kickoff there is the Delaware Law Enforcement for Special Olympics is the annual Torch Run, where hundreds of members of law enforcement carry the Flame of Hope across the state, lighting the way for acceptance and inclusion. 

Then to kick off Summer Games with an opening day parade just like they do for the Olympics as they Parade the athlete’s so that fans can see them march to be cheered before they will start to compete in the games. Then they are invited to a family barbecue where the athletes’ families are welcome to attend and enjoy food and fun activities as well as a dance.

The athletes competed in six sports throughout two days at the Nelson Athletic Complex on the campus of the University of Delaware sports complex. The sports include Bocce, Powerlifting, Swimming, Softball, Tennis, and Track and Field events. 

Jon Buzby a board member and Senior Director of Unified Champion Schools told us “The 2024 games were bigger and better than ever before thanks to the hard work of more than 1,500 volunteers at the games and of course the coaches who worked tirelessly leading up to the games at practices over the past few months”. 

He also told us “We can’t thank the co-presenting sponsors Bank of America and DuPont enough and the dozens of businesses and other entities that made a difference to ensure a fantastic experience for everyone who attended”. 
The Special Olympics of Delaware (SODE is always looking for volunteers, and partners. To be part of the SODE please visit their website www.sode.org. As their motto says “Get off the sideline and into the game”.

Nick Halliday

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