For over a decade, Colorado Mesa University (CMU) has welcomed athletes with various intellectual disabilities from across western Colorado to the Special Olympics Colorado State Summer Games. This year, the tradition continued with CMU serving as the host site for the 2025 games from June 6–8.
Throughout the weekend, 775 athletes competed in six sports. Events included swimming at the El Pomar Natatorium, powerlifting in the Maverick Center, soccer on the CMU rugby field and both track & field and pentathlon at Stocker Stadium. The athletes were supported by 300+ coaches and 54 unified partners, along with hundreds of volunteers who stepped up to help make the event a success.
Despite severe storms forcing some last-minute schedule adjustments, participants didn’t let the weather slow them down. Athletes, organizers and volunteers quickly adjusted and remained resilient to keep things moving.
“It’s an honor to host the State Summer Games at CMU every year,” said Vice President for Student Services Roberto Montoya, PhD. “Seeing hundreds of amazing athletes, volunteers and supporters come together on our campus is a powerful reminder of how infectious joy, courage and resilience can be.”
CMU’s collaboration with Special Olympics Colorado reflects a shared effort to create a welcoming space where everyone feels supported and valued.