May 24, 2010
The Catholic University of America will host the 2010 Special Olympics District of Columbia Summer Games for the 10th consecutive year on May 25 to 27.
Approximately 950 athletes and 900 volunteers are expected at the Raymond A. DuFour Athletic Center and Cardinal Stadium for the 41st annual summer games for athletes with disabilities. The participants will compete in traditional summer Olympic sports such as track, swimming, soccer, tennis and volleyball.
The Special Olympics were founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister to former U.S. President John F. Kennedy. Today, her son, Timothy Shriver, who earned his master's degree in religion and religious education at CUA in 1988, is CEO and chairman.
"I'm so proud my alma mater not only educated me but is continuing to educate thousands of Washingtonians about the gifts of Special Olympics athletes," Shriver says.
CUA student athletes and coaches will be volunteering at the event. The university typically hosts three or four events for the organization each year, with the summer games being the biggest, according to CUA Athletic Director Mike Allen.
"The partnership between Catholic University and Special Olympics means a great deal to all of us at CUA," says Allen. "The athletes, their families and the hundreds of volunteers who help with the event inspire us with their skill, determination and enthusiasm. It is truly our pleasure to host them each year."
The event will feature awards ceremonies, programs to encourage healthy athletes, a barbecue for participants and their families, and a variety of social events. On the night of May 25, the athletes will get the chance to spend a night in one of the university's residence halls.
Pamela Brown, a news anchor and reporter for WJLA-TV and News Channel 8, will emcee the opening ceremonies.
MEDIA: For more information, contact Katie Lee or Mary McCarthy in the Office of Public Affairs at 202-319-5600.