Special Olympics seeks volunteers before March 2 basketball tournament


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Kelly/Shorts Stadium hosts thousands for the 50th Special Olympics Michigan on May 31.

Special Olympics is searching for volunteer referees and scorekeepers to help out at its annual district basketball tournament at Morey Courts Saturday, March 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

According to Special Olympics Michigan’s website, about 1,800 athletes and 350 coaches/chaperones participate in the district basketball tournament each year. 

Like all Special Olympics events, the tournament is free to attend and open to the public. 

“Getting fans in the stands are just as important as volunteers,” said Aaron Mills, senior director of marketing and communications. “If you’re playing in an empty gym versus people cheering for you, you’re going to get a lot more hyped.” 

The district basketball tournament serves as a qualifier for the state championship that is held at Calvin College in Grand Rapids. Other qualifying districts include Caledonia, Northville and Saline these districts will hold similar tournaments to determine who will qualify in the state finale. 

This year, 24 Mount Pleasant teams are split into eight divisions will compete for a chance to qualify in the state finals. 

“Everyone knows the state summer games, it’s the largest tournament we put on every year and it’s right on campus,” said Mills. “But what they don’t know is that we do 700 local competitions throughout the state each year.” 

After the basketball season ends Special Olympics will begin the transition into training and preparing for the annual state summer games. 

Mills said volunteers can register by calling the Special Olympics offices ahead of time at 989-774-3911 or they can show up day-of and be registered on the spot if they arrive by 8 a.m. 

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