ESCANABA — The 2020 Special Olympics Michigan Regional Basketball Tournament will be held Saturday, Feb. 29th at Escanaba High School.

According to Dorothy Kollmann, Special Olympics committee Co-chairperson for the Escanaba Kiwanis, participants from across the Upper Peninsula are expected to attend. The Kiwanis is anticipating about 300 people, including athletes, coaches, and families.

Male and female athletes of various abilities, ages 16 and up will compete in the tournament.

The Escanaba Kiwanis Club has sponsored the event for 43 years, Kollmann noted. A number of other volunteers have also agreed to assist in this year’s tournament.

Opening Ceremonies begin at 10 a.m. Saturday morning. The American Legion Honor Guard and Civil Air Patrol will lead the Parade of Athletes. The Remnants Chorus will sing the National Anthem, and Escanaba Mayor Marc Tall will welcome all.

The games begin at approximately 10:30 a.m. with lunch being served at 11:30. Attendees can watch the games and/or visit in the commons area. The McDonald family band will be in the commons with music throughout the day.

Closing ceremonies will take place around 4 p.m. Teams will receive medals and ribbons. Top qualifiers will be able to compete downstate.

The public is invited to attend, and there is no cost for admission. Concessions will be available.

According to a press release from Special Olympics Michigan, they provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for 22,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Athletes build physical fitness, develop self-confidence and prepare for participation in community sports programs.