The University of Maine at Orono will host over 2,000 Special Olympics Maine athletes, coaches, and volunteers for the 2023 State Summer Games on June 9-11.
This year’s most cherished two-night, three-day event is back in full swing, after being canceled in 2020-2021 and only offering a one-day event last year. Over the weekend, athletes from across the state will have the chance to display their skills in a variety of traditional and unified competitions; events range from track and field to bocce.
The State Summer Games competitions kick off on Friday, June 9th followed by the Parade of Athletes, Opening Ceremonies, and the Maine Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg. Athletes will take off their athletic shoes and get on their dancing shoes for the Saturday night Victory Dance; this year’s theme is Prom Night.
Important Summer Games Information Below:
Summer Games Map and Schedules:
Sports Offered:
Each sport offers both Traditional and Unified Sports events. Sports Rules and Regulations can be found by going to each sport specific link below:
Healthy Athletes
We will once again offer free professional screenings to athletes during the games. Screenings will include:
- Special Smiles – Dentists will be checking athletes’ teeth.
- Fit Feet– Podiatrists will be checking athletes’ feet, ankles and proper shoes/socks.
- Healthy Hearing – Hearing professionals will be checking athletes’ level of hearing, hearing loss, and other hearing related needs.
Parade of Athletes:
Dress in all of your Delegation gear and show off your Team Spirit!
Dance Theme:
We’ll see you at the dance on Saturday, June 10th! Dressing up is not necessary and neither is dancing – although we would love to see you all out on the dance floor!
Spectator Information
Maps and schedule:
Maps and an event schedule can be found at the Information Tent located on the Southwest side of the track just outside the entrance. Alternatively- they can both be found on this webpage above.
Bring your own food and drinks:
Food and drinks will be extremely limited for spectators. Lunches provided are for athletes, coaches and volunteers. We highly recommend that as a spectator you bring your own food and drinks or visit one of the many local restaurants or shops.
Where to park:
Please see the parking map section of this web page for information on where to park. Do not park in any zone which has a “no parking” sign. You will be towed without warning by The University. Please understand that while we do our best to have ample parking this event is attended by many people so parking very close to the track may be limited, there is plenty of parking available across the campus however some parking lots are further away than others.
Where to watch:
Spectators are welcome to watch competition from the bleachers, or for field events anywhere near the event. Please cross the track as little as possible- this is a busy competition and it is incredibly unfair to athletes who are running to have obstacles in their path. Please be aware that bleachers and most areas are not shaded. Lawn chairs are allowed for anyone who wants to sit and watch a field event- there is a high likelihood there will not be space for a chair at running or standing long jump.
Awards:
Since this is such a busy event the awards for each heat will happen directly after the event has concluded. Make sure to follow your athlete to their awards stand if you wish to watch them receive their award!
Souvenirs:
Our souvenirs tent is open to everyone! We will have commemorative t-shirts available in addition to many other items. We accept cash, check or card.
Where is my athlete/ which events are they in?
Unfortunately since we have more than 1,000 athletes competing we are unable to check on individuals. Make sure you know which events your athlete is in before the games so you don’t miss a thing!
Volunteer Opportunities
