Special Olympics event coming to Northwest

Northwest Missouri State University will host the Special Olympics Missouri northwest area basketball tournament Jan. 12 which will bring more than 250 athletes from across the region to Maryville.

Opening Ceremonies will begin at 8:30 a.m. in Bearcat Arena and consist of entertainment provided by Northwest as well as a Special Olympics cheer squad, the running of the Special Olympics torch, and the athlete oath. Games will start at 9:30 a.m. and run until approximately 4 p.m.

"We are honored to be able to partner with the Special Olympics again this year," said Northwest Director of Athletics Wren Baker.

The contests will be played in Bearcat Arena and the Student Rec Center

Competition divisions consist of individual skills, team skills, 3-on-3, modified and regulation, and unified basketball. Fans are invited to show support by cheering the athletes on at the free event.

For more information or to volunteer at the 2013 Special Olympics Northwest Area Basketball Tournament, please contact Katie Hrenchir at 816-233-6232 or email hrenchir@somo.org. You may also visit www.somo.org for more details.