Nearly 350 athletes and 150 coaches representing 34 counties from across Pennsylvania will travel to the 2008 Special Olympics Pennsylvania (SOPA) Winter Games in the Johnstown area, February 24-27. This statewide competition is returning to Johnstown for the eighth consecutive year. The event will feature intense competition in alpine and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, figure and speed skating, and individual skills events. This event is a 2009 World Games qualifying event.
The festivities begin with the pomp and circumstance and lighting of the Olympic flame at the Opening Ceremonies which will be held at UPJ's Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center on February 24th.
Competition ends on February 27, and Closing Ceremonies will be at the Greater Johnstown Area Vocational Technical School.. Other activities include a victory dance and a karaoke bash to be held after Closing Ceremonies.
Those interested in volunteering at the 2008 Winter Games may call (800)-233-5161. Volunteers from around the state are welcome to serve as officials, athlete escorts, and award presenters, as well as to provide administrative support.