Fountain Valley, CA – November 16-17, 2024 – The countdown is on for one of the most inspiring sporting events of the year! The 2024 Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) Fall Games Championship is set to ignite Fountain Valley as hundreds of athletes and coaches from across Southern California unite for an unforgettable weekend of sports, camaraderie and celebration. Competing in golf (both traditional and Unified), soccer, softball, tennis and volleyball, these athletes will demonstrate the essence of perseverance, teamwork and the unwavering spirit of champions.
Event Highlights
- Opening Ceremony: Saturday, Nov. 16 at 9:00 a.m.
- Sports Competition: golf (both traditional and Unified), soccer, softball, tennis and volleyball: Saturday starting at 10:00 a.m. and Sunday starting at 9:00 a.m. with golf beginning at 10:00 a.m.
- Healthy Athletes Screenings: Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Young Athletes: Saturday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Festival: Saturday from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Rafer’s Boutique: Shop for exclusive Special Olympics Southern California merchandise on Saturday from 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
The Opening Ceremony kicks off Fall Games with a parade of athletes, inspirational speakers, the arrival of the Flame of Hope carried by a local Law enforcement officer and athlete, and live entertainment to set the stage for an action-packed weekend. Meanwhile, the Festival will feature interactive games and booths hosted by SOSC’s partner companies, ensuring fun for all ages.
Competition
The 2024 Fall Games Championship promises to deliver thrilling competitions across a range of sports, where athletes will showcase their incredible talent, dedication and sportsmanship. With contests in golf, soccer, softball, tennis and volleyball, the energy on the field will be electric as athletes give their all in pursuit of victory. Each game, whether it’s a perfectly placed kick on the soccer field or a powerful serve on the volleyball court, will highlight the perseverance and teamwork that define these remarkable competitors. Golf will be in the spotlight as Unified competition will be underway where pairs of athletes with and without intellectual disabilities will compete together celebrating our commitment to creating a more inclusive world. Fans can expect intense matchups and unforgettable moments in all sports, as athletes strive for gold and personal bests throughout the weekend.
Healthy Athletes
As part of the event, Special Olympics Southern California’s Healthy Athletes will offer free health screenings to all participating athletes. These screenings, spanning seven key areas – from foot care and physical therapy to eye and dental care – will prioritize the well-being of the athletes. Those who participate in some or all of these screenings stand to win various prizes.
Disciplines include:
- Fit Feet
- FUNfitness
- Health Promotions
- Healthy Hearing
- Special Smiles
- Opening Eyes
- Strong Minds
Young Athletes Program
The future of sports begins here! Children with and without intellectual disabilities ages 2-7 can take part in the Young Athletes Program, where they’ll learn foundational sports skills like running, kicking, and throwing. With two sessions on Saturday and three on Sunday, this is the perfect opportunity for families and caregivers to join in the joy of sport and get children excited about SOSC competition in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Volunteer Opportunities
The success of the 2024 Fall Games Championship relies on a team of dedicated volunteers. Over 700 volunteers are needed to ensure the event runs smoothly. Volunteers are invited to be a part of this transformative weekend, supporting athletes as they pursue their dreams of gold.
“The 2024 Fall Games Championship is a true testament to the power of sport to inspire and unite communities. It’s an honor to witness the dedication, perseverance, and joy that our athletes bring to the field, and we invite everyone to join us in celebrating their achievements,” said Kelly Pond, President and CEO of Special Olympics Southern California.
Join Us in Fountain Valley!
Celebrate athleticism, inclusion, and the power of community at the 2024 Fall Games Championship. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines, volunteering, or participating in the Festival, there’s a role for everyone in this extraordinary event.
Learn more about the SOSC Fall Games and how to get involved at www.sosc.org/fallgames.