After weeks of training and anticipation, the first-ever Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) Virtual Summer Games presented by SpartanNash officially gets underway today with the first-ever Virtual Opening Ceremony.

The Opening Ceremony premieres on the Special Olympics Michigan Facebook page and YouTube channel tonight at 7 p.m. The 15 minute long ceremony is emceed by 13 On Your Side news anchor and Special Olympics Michigan Board member, Juliet Dragos, and also includes messages from special guests and celebrities including Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Detroit Lions kicker Matt Prater, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins and WWE superstar Big Show. The ceremony will come to an inspirational conclusion with the Special Olympics athlete oath performed by SOMI athletes from all across the state and the lighting of the Flame of Hope by Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Michigan members.

Hundreds of athletes have been training for weeks and will see their hard work culminate in the week-long Virtual Summer Games event from July 19 to 25. Athletes chose from a list of nearly 20 sporting events they could do from the safety of home including athletics, volleyball, gymnastics, basketball, weightlifting and fitness activities. As part of the Virtual Games, participants will submit their scores for virtual awards to see how they stack up against others from around the state.

The Virtual Summer Games is open to anyone: whether you’re a Special Olympics Michigan athlete, volunteer, supporter – or just someone wanting to be a part of this first-of-its-kind event that celebrates a vision for an inclusive Michigan.

“SpartanNash and the SpartanNash Foundation are committed to supporting Special Olympics and its athletes throughout the states we serve,” said Kathy Mahoney, SpartanNash Chief Legal Officer and President of the SpartanNash Foundation Board of Trustees. “Since 1985, we have been proud partners of Special Olympics Michigan, and we are honored to continue that tradition this year. As we all make adjustments to daily activities – including sports and athletic competitions – we are proud to support Special Olympics athletes as they adapt, overcome and have fun doing it.”

During Virtual Summer Games week, Special Olympics Michigan will hold various interactive activities across SOMI’s social media channels including Virtual Opening and Closing Ceremonies, a Virtual Victory Dance, special events and activities, and a whole lot more.

The Virtual Summer Games coincides with the Global Week of Inclusion (July 20-26), which aims to celebrate everyone’s abilities while amplifying the message to end discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities.

Complete details for the 2020 Virtual Summer Games can be found at SOMI.org/virtualgames