OHIO — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine joined leaders from the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission and Special Olympics Ohio on Thursday to support Cleveland’s bid to host the 2030 Special Olympics USA Games.
The city is one of two finalists competing to secure the national event.
This week, the Special Olympics Bid Evaluation Committee visited Cleveland to tour potential venues, including Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, which is proposed as the site for the games’ ceremonies.
The arena, home to the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers and AHL’s Cleveland Monsters, also served as the location for Friday’s event.
“Cleveland is the perfect home for the 2030 Special Olympics USA Games, its athletes, families, and fans across the country,” said Governor DeWine.
“We are fully committed to bringing a national sporting event with so much heart right here to Ohio, The Heart of it All. This is a great opportunity to showcase the best of our state, in a city that is known for the welcoming spirit of its people and its world-class venues.”
The Special Olympics USA Games are held every four years in major cities across the country.
The eight-day event features more than 16 sports and programs focused on athlete and family wellness.
If selected, the 2030 games would be the largest inclusive sports event in Cleveland’s history, drawing over 5,500 athletes and coaches from all 50 states, along with more than 100,000 family members and attendees.
According to the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, which is leading the city’s bid, the event could generate an estimated $70 million for the local economy. Beyond the financial impact, supporters say the games would leave a lasting legacy in Ohio.
“Hosting the 2030 Special Olympics USA Games would provide a benefit well beyond the financial impact,” said David Gilbert, President and CEO of the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission.
“Through the power of sports, the Special Olympics athletes will inspire our community to embrace a broader perspective on human talents and potential. I can’t think of a better legacy than one of inclusion and acceptance.”
Leaders and athletes from Special Olympics Ohio also participated in Friday’s event.
The organization provides year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with disabilities, supporting their physical, social, and psychological development.
“For Special Olympics Ohio, hosting the 2030 USA Games would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, helping us advance our identity as a legitimate sports organization,” said Jessica Stewart, President and CEO of Special Olympics Ohio.
“The awareness and understanding of Special Olympics that the community will gain through preparation and hosting would open doors and further our ability to engage more athletes with intellectual disabilities.”
Special Olympics Ohio currently serves over 20,000 athletes across all 88 counties, with support from 2,000 active volunteers.
Enthusiasm for Cleveland’s bid is already evident, with more than 12,000 people signing up to volunteer if the games are awarded to the city.
The event also featured inclusive activities, bringing together Special Olympics Ohio athletes, students, and community members.
Attendees participated in cornhole, yoga, sports psychology sessions, dental screenings, board games, the Cavs Care Clinic, and other interactive stations.
A final decision on the host city for the 2030 Special Olympics USA Games is expected in the coming months.
