Flag football will be one of the events coming to Jefferson City in the fall of 2014. (Photo/Special Olympics, Missouri)

Flag football will be one of the events coming to Jefferson City in the fall of 2014. (Photo/Special Olympics, Missouri)

More than 900 athletes and coaches, along with family and friends from across Missouri will converge on Jefferson City Oct. 3-5, 2014, for the Special Olympics Missouri State Outdoor Games. This will be the first of a four-year term in the city.  This is the first time a Special Olympics Missouri state event will be held in Jefferson City since the 2007 State Outdoor Championships.

“Our past experiences with Jefferson City have been among the best in the state,” said Mark Musso, Special Olympics Missouri CEO/President. “Whether it is securing sponsors or volunteers, it’s always been an easy process in Jefferson City. For that reason, we’re confident that the Jefferson City community will provide the volunteers, sponsors and top-notch venues we need to make this a safe, fun and successful event for our athletes.

Softball, tennis, soccer, bocce, flag football and golf are featured in the State Outdoor Games, which were previously held in Cape Girardeau from 2010-13. Competition will include traditional games, Unified Sports (bringing together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities — people of similar age and athletic ability), team skills and individual skills.

AUDIO Trish Lutz interview (2:45)