Diocese of Sioux City teams up with Special Olympics for NAIA Tourney

February 12, 2004

The Diocese of Sioux City will sponsor the Special Olympics Iowa clinic at NAIA Division II Women's Basketball National Championship on March 9. NAIA players and coaches will conduct the clinic at the Tyson Events Center/Gateway Arena in two sessions: 9 to 10:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

"We are proud to be actively involved with the Special Olympics Iowa clinic and have watched it grow into a highlight event for the athletes," stated Father Dennis Meinen, the diocesan coordinator for those with physical challeges.

This is the seventh year that the Diocese of Sioux City has sponsored the appearance of these special athletes from across Northwest Iowa.

Father Meinen called his involvement with Special Olympics a true blessing. "It is a pleasure being able to use our gifts to serve others and do good for those who have willing spirits contained in fragile and imperfect bodies."

Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and competition for individuals with mental retardation. Founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968, Special Olympics serves more than one million athlete around the world, including 11,000 in the state of Iowa. The public is invited to attend this free clinic and watch the excitement created between the athletes.