Let the games begin! The East Region Spring Games of Special Olympics Texas are coming to Baytown and Lee High School on April 19-20. While Special Olympics has had events here for more than 40 years, hosting the entire region is a little different.
Lauren Siple, Athletics Programs Coordinator for the City of Baytown, said, "I could not be more excited to watch all of the athletes compete."
More than 1,000 athletes are coming to Baytown from Houston, College Station, Galveston, Beaumont and surrounding areas to compete, have fun, and make a few people smile.
Lauren said, “Special Olympics brings pure joy to anyone involved or competing. The athletes get to show their true passion and the coaches, family members, or mentors get recognized for the hours they poured into these efforts.”
The two-day event begins with cycling on Friday. Opening ceremonies will actually kick off Saturday’s full lineup of track, tennis, soccer, and many other events.
“It's an honor to have a continuous partnership with Baytown Parks and Recreation and Special Olympics so that Baytown can continue to host the games. There are countless hours of preparation, communication, dedication, support, and involvement in the weeks leading up to something of this magnitude. The reward of being out there with our Olympians and community far outweighs all of that,” said Lauren.
The event already has a host of helpers, but with a large event like this comes an increased need for volunteers. It doesn’t matter your skill level or age.
She said, “We are indeed asking for a ton of volunteers due to the larger-scaled event. We have kids younger than 7 acting as cheerleaders to older adults who want to hand out water bottles or awards. If you have free time that weekend, we need you.”
If you can’t volunteer, you can still attend as a fan and a friend. Either way, you have no excuse to miss out on one truly special event.
Lauren said, “The energy is so contagious and upbeat, whether it's the athletes giving their best efforts to the fans cheering, and volunteers celebrating everyone. You can't beat this event.”
To volunteer, visit baytown.org/218 or engage.baytown.com.