Special Olympics Returns to UW-W Beginning Thurs. - Volunteers still needed

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Special Olympics Wisconsin continue preparations for the 2024 State Summer Games on June 6-8 in Whitewater.

More than 1,400 athletes are set to compete in athletics (track and field), cornhole, powerlifting, soccer, and tennis. Events will be held at UW-Whitewater’s athletic facilities – Perkins Stadium, Rex Foster Track, the Warhawk Outdoor Tennis Complex, the Williams Center, and the campus intramural fields.

With more than a dozen events and competitions scheduled over the course of the three days, more than 100 volunteer shift opportunities are available. All volunteers will receive a free t-shirt and the opportunity to engage with participants, fans, and event staff.

“UW-Whitewater prides itself on being an inclusive, welcoming place, especially for the thousands of visitors we welcome to campus each summer,” said Morgan Anderson, Director of Camps and Conferences at UW-Whitewater. “Volunteering for the Special Olympics State Summer Games is a great way to make these talented athletes and passionate fans feel like they’re home. We invite residents from Whitewater and in the surrounding communities to get involved in this great event.”

Debbie Reuter, director of student affairs in the Center for Students With Disabilities, volunteers measuring distances at the javelin competition. Wisconsin Special Olympics came to the UW-Whitewater campus for the first time with its 2023 games. Athletes enjoyed perfect weather and competed in and around the athletics facilities on the north end of campus on June 8-10, 2023. (UW-Whitewater photo/Craig Schreiner)

No prior experience is required to volunteer (unless otherwise designated). Volunteers aged 12 and under must be accompanied by a chaperone. Special Olympics Wisconsin will provide training before your shift start time.

“We welcome Whitewater community members and people from surrounding communities to come to our games and witness amazing sportsmanship and wonderful athletic experiences,” said Danny Kuklinski, senior director of sports for Special Olympics Wisconsin. “You will be forever changed through a volunteer experience, but we also would love as many fans in the stands as possible!”

The Parade of Athletes and Opening Ceremony kicks the event off on June 6 from 6-8 p.m. at Perkins Stadium. Check out the full schedule of events here.

For more information or group volunteer reservations, Kuklinski at dkuklunski@specialolympics.org.