On Friday night, athletes, coaches, volunteers, and sponsors gathered at Farmington's McGee Park for the 2013 State Poly Hockey Championships Opening Ceremonies. Opening Ceremonies kicked off the competition in a style that you can only be seen at a Special Olympics event. There were tearful speeches, enthusiastic introductions, well-spoken oaths, and a phenomenal national anthem - all presented by Special Olympics athletes, coaches, and volunteers. These moving Opening Ceremonies were concluded perfectly with the lighting of the Olympic Torch by our LETR Guardians of the Flame. The Opening Ceremonies provided an upbeat, fervent atmosphere for the rest of the tournament.
Competition kicked off at 8 am on Saturday morning and from the second it began, both the energy and noise level were high. Chanting, cheering, and banging on the sides of the rinks was constant throughout the day. The competition was fast-paced and McGee Park was full to the brim with almost 300 Special Olympics athletes and countless fans.

Closing Ceremonies were equally as unique. Opting for an open mic format this year, coaches, volunteers, officials, families, and athletes were all given the opportunity to share what being a part of Special Olympics means to them. A general theme resounded through the microphone as people spoke: Special Olympics has changed their lives in some way. It was a meaningful way to close out the first state competition of the year.

Special thank you to the Piedra Vista HS Panthers Softball Team, Cold Treats and the Sandoval Family, and San Juan County LETR Representatives for volunteering at the event. To view more photos from the event, click HERE.