U.S. Paralympics relies heavily on its amazing community partners to aid in its attempt to provide opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities to participate in and learn about Paralympic sport at every level. On June 5-8, U.S. Paralympic community partner, University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), Edmond Okla., will host the 2008 Endeavor Games. The Endeavor Games is a nationally-recognized competition that allows all athletes with physical disabilities to participate in a multi-sport event similar to the Paralympics. The Games also provides training clinics for aspiring athletes.

“We really just want people to come out and see what it is all about,” said Katrina Shaklee, Director of UCO Disabled Sports and Events. “This event gives novice athletes the opportunity to compete alongside elite athletes. It is exciting to see new athletes come to the event, participate in clinics, meet the elite athletes, learn about the Paralympics and realize it is something they can do too.”

The event is open to novice and elite athletes with various physical disabilities depending on each sport offered. Classification is mandatory for all new athletes, or athletes who are not listed as being classified by their disabled sport organization. Athletes will be awarded Paralympic-style gold, silver and bronze medallions for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each event entered.

“We are very fortunate to have an amazing organization like UCO help us spread the Paralympic message,” said Mike Mushett, Director of Community Program, U.S. Paralympics. “The Endeavor Games are a prime example of the opportunity and outreach we wish to provide to everyone with physical disabilities. The experience the participants receive from events like this can be life-changing.”

The Endeavor Games will feature nine sport competitions for athletes of all ages and classifications to compete in.

Sports competitions will include: Junior and adult wheelchair basketball, powerlifting, track and field, tennis, table tennis, boccia, swimming, archery and shooting. In addition to the sports competitions, U.S. Paralympics is presenting eight sport clinics that will be offered to Endeavor Games athletes, along with two sport clinics for officials.

The sports clinics include: archery, boccia, powerlifting, rowing, sitting volleyball, table tennis and track and field. Each of these clinics will be taught by either U.S. Paralympic national coaches or national officials.

U.S. Paralympics will also be hosting a Regional Military Sports Camp for wounded war-veterans that will take place the day before competition begins.

For more information on attending or participating in the Endeavor Games or about the Military Sports Camp visit: www.endeavorgames.com.