As Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) continues to prepare for a gradual return to in-person activities, SOMI is excited to announce a new virtual event: the first-ever Virtual Fall Games presented by Real Estate One Charitable Foundation. The Virtual Fall Games will give thousands of athletes across the state a new way to train and compete safely amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Registration is open now through September 24 at SOMI.org/virtualgames. Competition will then take place from September 25 through October 2 where participants can select from a dozen sporting events including cycling, golf, bocce, softball and fitness events. The Virtual Fall Games will culminate in a three-day, online celebration from October 4-6 featuring an Opening Ceremony, special events and a highlight show consisting of participant-submitted competition videos.
The Virtual Fall Games is open to anyone: whether you’re a Special Olympics Michigan athlete, volunteer, supporter – or just someone wanting to be a part of this inspiring event that celebrates an inclusive Michigan.
Both traditional and Unified competition is being offered. Traditional competition is for participants with intellectual disabilities. In Unified Sports, Special Olympics Michigan athletes are partnered with athletes who don’t have an intellectual disability. During the registration process, you can ask for assistance in being partnered up with either a SOMI athlete or a Unified partner should you wish to compete in any of the Unified events. Examples of Unified events at the Virtual Fall Games include the Cycling 5K and Golf 9-hole events where the times/scores for the Special Olympics athlete and Unified partner are added together to get a final team score.
Following the conclusion of the Games, all participants will receive printable, individualized digital awards listing their place in each event.
Complete details, including event descriptions and tutorial videos, for the 2020 Virtual Fall Games can be found at SOMI.org/virtualgames