The 35th annual Big Sky State Games (BSSG), which draws around 10,000 athletes of all ages from across Montana and surrounding states each year, are a go and registration has begun.
The organization announced June 1 most of the 40 sports they offer will be held July 17 through 19 including opening ceremonies on July 17 at Daylis Stadium in Billings. Registration began Monday after being delayed due to the novel coronavirus.
Adjustments were made for some sports like basketball and volleyball, which have moved outside, scaled back team sizes and staggered schedules, because of concerns over use of indoor facilities and keeping them clean. Officials with BSSG said they are following the Governor’s Directive for Phase 2 of the reopening of Montana.
BSSG Executive Director Liana Susott said the staff and the board of directors worked very hard to keep the games this year.
"There’s been a lot of state games that had to cancel their events. And so we are just grateful that we were able to do something for the athletes here in Montana," Susott said.
Susott urges athletes to check their website for any changes or updates to various sports.
She also emphasizes that some events by their nature do not allow for physical distancing and athletes should understand the inherent risk of entering the event.
Big Sky State Games were founded in 1986 to provide quality competitions and programs that inspire health and active lifestyles.
