Special Olympics Illinois cancels state summer games in Bloomington-Normal

Apr. 2--NORMAL -- Special Olympics Illinois has canceled the state summer games in Bloomington-Normal due to concerns over COVID-19.

"We know this is disappointing for the entire Special Olympics Illinois family, but the health and safety of our athletes, volunteers, staff, and partners is the organization's foremost priority," said Dave Breen, the group's president and CEO.

Last summer's games brought 11,000 people to Bloomington-Normal, including more than 4,000 athletes from across the state.

Breen, in an announcement at www.soill.org, said SOILL is establishing a task force to plan future events, including athlete-centric sports festivals, "when it is safe to return to competition."

Breen expressed regret Special Olympics athletes will be unable to compete.

"We know how hard our athletes continue to train at home and work to stay in shape both physically and mentally," he said. "We are establishing a task force, including athletes, to highlight the spirit and determination our competitors demonstrate each and every day."

Special Olympics Illinois last month canceled its Illinois State Basketball Championships at Illinois State's Horton Field House and Illinois Wesleyan's Shirk Center, and the Unified State Basketball Championships.

"In the meantime, we are creating new and exciting programming on our social channels," added Breen. "When the time comes and it is acceptable to resume operations, we'll be stronger and more dedicated to the athletes than ever."

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