Rutherford County, TN - Rutherford County is about to get a whole lot louder—with cheers, high-fives, and the unmistakable energy of the Special Olympics Tennessee State Fall Games. This Friday and Saturday, October 17 and 18, the community will welcome more than 900 athletes and Unified Partners from across the state to compete in four spirited sports: bowling, flag football, fitness, and cornhole.

The action starts this Friday morning at 9:00 a.m. with bowling at Smyrna Bowling Center. Then on Saturday, the celebration shifts to Richard Siegel Park in Murfreesboro, where Opening Ceremonies begin bright and early at 7:30 a.m. By 8:30 a.m., the fields will come alive with flag football matchups, fitness challenges, and cornhole tosses. One of the weekend’s highlights is the Unified Flag Football state competition, held in partnership with the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), showcasing teamwork between athletes with and without intellectual disabilities.

But the Fall Games aren’t just about competition—they’re about care, too. Athletes will have access to two free Healthy Athletes screenings. Special Smiles, supported by the Meharry School of Dentistry, will offer dental checkups and brushing tips. Meanwhile, Health Promotion will provide screenings for bone density, blood pressure, and BMI, all aimed at helping athletes build confidence and healthy habits.

And here’s where the community comes in. Volunteers are still needed for both days of the event. Whether it’s keeping score, timing races, assisting with health screenings, or handing out awards, there’s a role for anyone with a heart to serve. It’s a chance to be part of something joyful, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Special Olympics Tennessee continues its mission to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports, friendship, and shared achievement. With 17 Olympic-style sports offered statewide and a network of volunteers leading the charge, SOTN is more than an organization—it’s a movement.

To find out how you can volunteer or view the full schedule of events, visit Special Olympics Tennessee Fall Games. Show up, cheer loud, and make this weekend one to remember.