Join us for an unforgettable evening at the 2025 Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games Opening Ceremony, taking place Friday, June 6 at 7 pm at the University of Richmond's Robins Stadium.
This year’s event will be hosted by two impactful emcees:
Isaac Lucky: A Special Olympics Global Messenger and athlete from Newport News, Virginia, who has been competing since 2021 and is a passionate advocate for inclusion.
Bill Fitzgerald: CBS-6 evening anchor and dedicated advocate for children in foster care, bringing over 16 years of broadcast experience and a deep commitment to Virginia’s communities.
Isaac Lucky
Bill Fitzgerald
From powerful vocals to heartfelt storytelling, this year’s event is packed with rising stars who embody the spirit of resilience, inclusion, and joy.
Live Performances that Inspire
We’re thrilled to welcome a group of talented artists — all who recently shined on American Idol — to the stage for an electrifying Opening Ceremony, headlined by singer-songwriter Nina Daig from Beaverdam, Virginia, whose original song “Average Joe,” a tribute to her brother with an intellectual disability, earned her a golden ticket to Hollywood.
Nina Daig
Josh King
Grayson Torrence
Clara Rae
Trenton Wright
Pat Johnson
Samantha Ray
Mary Aline
More Opening Ceremony Highlights
- Co-emcees: Isaac Lucky and Bill Fitzgerald.
- National Anthem: Sung by Trooper Isaiah Bishop (Virginia State Police) and signed by Maria Rogers.
- Athlete Speaker: Jesus Godinez, accompanied by his father, Saul.
- Athlete Oath (English): GameChang3rs Frank Stephens, David Egan, and Paul Marretti.
- Athlete Oath (Spanish): Nyelly Rivera.
- Coaches’ Oath: Maddie Barrera.
- Carrying in the Torch: Daniel King and Lt. Adam Bernstein (Virginia Beach Police Department).
- Lighting the Cauldron: Armani Downes and Chesterfield County Sheriff Karl Leonard.
- Fireworks Show: Courtesy of Pyro Shows.
Friday, June 6 | 7 PM | Robins Stadium, University of Richmond
For more details, visit specialolympicsva.org/summer-games.
Sign up to Volunteer 2 Cheer from 6:45 to 9 pm by clicking here.