30 Aug Hitting the Hardwood in Butte
The Special Olympics Montana State Basketball Tournament is back for its final year in Butte! After two years of modified skills competitions and localized events, we are excited to announce the return of the statewide in-person competition November 10-12.
Excitement is growing in “Butte America” thanks to the support of our premier sponsor, Town Pump, and the leadership provided by the volunteer Games Management Team comprised of 20-30 Butte community members.
The Butte community was scheduled to host the tournament for the 2019-2022 seasons. After an excellent 2019 event, the plan had to be adapted to fit the times in 2020 and 2021. The local volunteer Games Management Team is excited to have one more opportunity to show the state what Butte can do as it
hosts this amazing event in November.
Over 700 athletes and Unified partners from 45 or more teams are expected to compete in more than 160 team competitions over the two-day period. Along with athletes and unified partners, over 180 coaches and chaperones will attend the tournament.
An additional 500 local volunteers are needed to help organize and run the event. Tournament games will be held in gyms throughout Butte. Athletes are thrilled to have the opportunity to compete in 5-on-5 (unified and traditional), 3-on-3, individual skills, and Motor Activities Training Program events in such welcoming communities.
The Opening Ceremony, which officially kicks off the tournament, will take place at the Butte Maroon Activities Center (MAC) on Thursday, November 10th at 6:30pm. The event is highlighted by the arrival of the Special Olympics Flame of Hope, escorted by athletes and Law Enforcement Torch Run officers.
Above: The 2022 State Basketball Tournament Co-Directors Paul Babb with Northwestern Energy and Bill McGladdery with Town Pump were joined by Special Olympics athletes Heather Raymond and Ruschelle Tyvand at the August press conference announcing the return of the statewide, in-person tournament to Butte, November 10-12.