State Games of Mississippi

“Faster!  Higher!  Stronger!”  This is the motto of the Olympic Games.  The goal of the Olympic Movement is to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practiced without discrimination of any kind and in the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding and a spirit of friendship, solidarity, and fair play.  And this excellence of purpose is apparent here in Meridian, with the State Games of Mississippi.  State Games is a privately-sponsored, non-profit organization that promotes amateur athletics and healthy lifestyles for Mississippians of all ages and abilities.

The National Congress of State Games originated in 1988 and now has 37 states participating.  Mississippi is one of those states and is affiliated with the Olympic Committee.  State Games of MS was established by a group of business and community leaders in 1991, with the First State Games being held in 1992 with approximately 1800 athletes.  It now has more than 5,500 participants who enjoy competing in 37 different individual and team sports.  Soccer and all-star baseball are the largest events, with corn hole and pickle ball being added recently.

The International Olympic Committee, United States Olympic Committee and the Olympic Committees for most other countries are totally non-profit.  That means, State Games are strictly dependent on the support of their sponsors. “There are over 100 sponsors who help make the games happen each year,” says Bobbie Harmon, Marketing and Development Director.  “Even though the office staff consists of four people year round, 400 volunteers, 5 interns and 37 commissioners help make the State Games successful each year.”  There is nothing else like it in our state.  From mid-May through June, participants from 4 years of age to 96 years old participate.  For 29 years, the exciting opening Ceremony, parade of athletes and lighting of the torch has signaled the beginning of the games. 

The cooperation of the City, County and local businesses has been the foundation of the State Games since its inception.  The economic impact for the area is phenomenal with over 9.3 million dollars being brought in through the Games.  “Chamber Executives broached the idea of bringing the Games to Meridian and have always participated and been involved in the Games.   That’s why we’re a member,” says Carolyn Smith, State Games Executive Director. 

Baron de Coubertin, founder of the Olympics said, “The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle.”  And beginning June 5^th, 2020, you will see athletes young and old taking part and struggling to win their event in The State Olympic Games of Mississippi!  Don’t miss it!

State Games of Mississippi
5201 14th St., Meridian, MS