Jan. 21, 2013

PULLMAN, Wash. - Washington State University Athletics, in partnership with Special Olympics Washington, is hosting the East Regional Special Olympics Basketball Tournament, Saturday, January 26.

The tournament will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bohler Athletic Complex, Physical Education Building and Smith Gym on the WSU campus, and at Jefferson Elementary School in Pullman.

The WSU Student-Athlete Development Unit and SAAC (Student-Athlete Advisory Committee) are spearheading the university's efforts in lending support to the event.

"WSU Athletics is thrilled to host this event," said Kari Sampson, WSU Athletics Coordinator of Career Development and Community Service. "Hosting an event of this caliber requires hundreds of volunteers, including Pullman community members, WSU faculty and staff, students, athletic staff and student-athletes, all of which have graciously stepped forward to help."

"We are particularly excited to pair Special Olympic athletes with student-athletes throughout this event, as it will foster an environment of inclusion," added Sampson. "We are confident that the event will be a great experience for participants and volunteers alike."

"It is nice to have a community want to host your tournament and provide the volunteers to help out Special Olympic athletes," said Jill Ives, Sports & Training Manager East Region, Special Olympics Washington.

"For some of our athletes this is their social outlet," Ives added. "It's their opportunity to meet others with intellectual disabilities, other individuals within their community, and showcase their athletic skills."

According to Ives, 500 athletes will compete in Saturday's regional tournament, one of four throughout the state, in three divisions (junior, ages 8-15; senior, ages 16-21; and masters, ages 22 and up). The winners of each division advance to play the winners of each of the other three regions at the Winter Games in Wenatchee, March 1-3.

Admission is free to the public. For more information on Special Olympics Washington visit specialolympicswashington.org