SOMO News

The 2024 State Outdoor Games were a remarkable success, offering not only exciting athletic competition but also an immersive health and wellness experience through our Healthy Athletes program. With approximately 800 athletes and 200 Unified Partners in attendance, the event was a true celebration of sportsmanship, community, and well-being.

We were fortunate to have student volunteers from several of Missouri’s leading colleges and universities who brought their enthusiasm, expertise, and energy to support the health and wellness of our athletes. Their contributions were vital in delivering over 500 health screenings, ensuring athletes received essential care during the event.

Colleges and Universities Represented
The Healthy Athletes program was powered by dedicated students from a wide range of health sciences programs, including:

• Lincoln University Nursing
• University of Missouri School of Nursing
• State Technical College Dental Assisting Technology
• Washington University in St. Louis Audiology
• A.T. Still University – Missouri School of Dentistry (St. Louis Campus)
• UMKC School of Dentistry
• KCU Osteopathic Medical School
• Missouri Western State University Physical Therapist Assistant Program
• Maryville University Physical Therapy

Thanks to the incredible efforts of these students, we were able to provide 502 health screenings across multiple categories, ensuring our athletes were supported in their health journey.

Healthy Athletes Screening Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at the impact made across the screenings:

• Fit Feet: 83 screenings
• Special Smiles: 134 screenings
• Health Promotion: 171 screenings
• Funfitness: 65 screenings
• Healthy Hearing: 49 screenings, with 34 athletes receiving referrals for follow-up on potential hearing aid needs

The hard work of these students helped bridge gaps in healthcare for our athletes, and their involvement has made a lasting impact on everyone involved.

The Zones: Fun, Learning, and Wellness All in One!
Beyond health screenings, one of the most exciting aspects of the event was seeing athletes enthusiastically engage with the various wellness zones we offered. These included:

• Art Zone
• Pawsitive Zone (with therapy dogs)
• Sports Zone
• Hydration Zone
• Nutrition Zone
• Social Emotional Zone
• Candid Zone

It was heartwarming to watch athletes interact with each zone, learning quick, hands-on strategies they could take home and apply in their daily lives. A key highlight was the mindfulness station, where athletes practiced gratitude and had the opportunity to write a note of appreciation for their coaches. This station not only fostered a sense of connection but also highlighted the vital role coaches play in the success of our athletes and the organization as a whole. The dedication and support of our coaches are truly integral to the success of our programs.

Memorable Moments and Highlights
Throughout the event, there were many memorable moments—from Dance & Bingo to the inspiring Opening Ceremony, and of course, the fierce competition and incredible sportsmanship displayed by athletes. However, one of the most standout highlights was watching the Mizzou Softball Team run our Individual Skills Softball Competition. The women of the Mizzou team were outstanding in their engagement with the athletes, creating a fun and supportive atmosphere. Our athletes had a fantastic time, and it was a powerful reminder of the joy and connection that sports can bring.

A Future-Focused Approach to Health and Wellness
In addition to the health screenings, this event provided a valuable opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields, from audiology to physical therapy and dentistry. Their involvement was not only a service to our athletes but also a key part of their educational journey, giving them real-world experience that will serve them well in their future careers.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the students, faculty members, coaches, and athletes who made the 2024 State Outdoor Games such a success. Your collective efforts made this event truly special, and we are excited to see the continued impact of your passion, professionalism, and dedication to our community. Thank you for making a difference!