FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 20, 2007

MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY – Department of Kinesiology (Sports Administration)

Contact: Tony Schmidt (662) 325-0968, (662) 312-4251

SPECIAL OLYMPICS EVENT DEEMED SUCCESSFUL AT MISSISSIPPI STATE

 STARKVILLE, Miss. –  Mississippi State University’s Carl Maddox Track Complex served host to the Olympics this past Friday, April 20 – the District 6 Special Olympics.

MSU’s Honor Fraternity for students aspiring to work in the sports business industry (S.P.O.R.T.S.), along with members of State’s M-Club, an organization of State’s student-athletes, volunteered their time as well as gaining experience in event management and operational skills.

 "Brad Butler, one of our graduate students, led today's charge and he did an excellent job in providing organization, good sportsmanship and healthy opportunities for our regional Special Olympians during an absolutely beautiful day at MSU,” said MSU Sports Administration Professor Robert Zullo. 
 
The day-long event attracted ten local schools and approximately 200 athletes that participated in races, field events such as shot put and long jump, as well as tennis and softball toss and bocce.  The opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics involved a torch run with local police authorities.

“I think we also need to thank the M Club, Dr. Kevin Stefanek's Adapted Physical Education class and also the leadership and enthusiasm of graduate student Marquase Lovings who demonstrated contagious energy all morning,” added Dr. Zullo.

 The District 6 Special Olympics prepared participants to compete at the state level and follows a successful fashion show held by SPORTS on Wednesday evening to raise proceeds for the local Special Olympics chapter.

 For more information on both events and registration forms contact Dr. Robert Zullo at 662-325-9281 or log on to the sports administration program website at http://www.kinesiology.msstate.edu