Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes ofwebsite accessibility

Special Olympics Tennessee to Host Regional Flag Football Invitational at University of Tennessee RecSports Fields

Over 100 Special Olympics Tennessee (SOTN) athletes representing six counties will compete
RM2_3210.jpg

Knoxville, Tenn. (September 14, 2022) – Over 100 Special Olympics Tennessee (SOTN) athletes representing six counties will compete in the East Tennessee Regional Flag Football Invitational this Saturday, September 17 from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The event will take place at RecSports Fields at Sutherland. Multiple Tennessee counties will be represented by athletes participating in the event including Blount, Hamilton, Hawkins, Knox, Loudon and Wilson. The teams will also include Unified Partners. This regional event leads into the State Flag Football Tournament set to take place in Nashville on October 1.

“Our athletes train year-round to participate in sporting competitions,” said Brenna Soriano, East Tennessee Regional Manager for Special Olympics Tennessee. “These competitions give them a chance to showcase their talents and hard work. This competition also includes Unified Teams which include athletes with and without disabilities working together on one team. These unified sports help build inclusion in sports, schools, and the community.”

For an event like this to come together, it takes a lot of work and time from coaches and other volunteers.

“All of our coaches are volunteers,” said Soriano. “They spend countless hours planning and coaching their team. They build relationships with the athletes and help them grow on and off the field. Often, they become so close they are like family. Our coaches are one of our greatest assets and without them, there would be no teams.”

The public is invited to come watch and cheer on the athletes during the event. Admission is free.

WHAT: Special Olympics Tennessee East Regional Flag Football Invitational

WHO: Special Olympics Athletes and Unified Partners.

WHEN: Saturday, September 17 from 9 AM to 3 PM Eastern.

WHERE: RecSports Fields at Sutherland– 3620 Sutherland Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37919