By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post
Thousands of people from Hays and across the state will fill Gross Memorial Coliseum for opening ceremonies of the 40th annual Special Olympics of Kansas State Basketball and Cheerleading Tournament at 7:30 p.m. Thursday.
Hays Assistant Police Chief Brian Dawson said the ceremony includes the Parade of Athletes and will culminate with law enforcement officers assisting the athletes with the Torch Run and lighting of the Special Olympics cauldron.
Dawson said local law enforcement has long been involved with SOKS, and it is always an honor to be a part of the opening ceremonies.
“For the families and their athletes, it’s something they look forward to all year long, traveling to Hays and participating and competing,” Dawson said. “It’s really a neat event, and I really encourage people to come out and support the athletes in their endeavors.”
The tournament runs through Saturday, March 21. The opening ceremonies will be streamed LIVE online at HaysPost.com.
A schedule of games and events can be found at HERE.