Local athletes to compete in Show-Me State Games

By Jamie Wachter ~ Southeast Missourian

More than 28,000 athletes from across Missouri are expected to invade Columbia, Mo., over the next three weekends for the Show-Me State Games.

The Games will begin its 20th year today, with opening ceremonies scheduled for 7 p.m. at Hearnes Center.

After having fewer than 600 participants in its first year, 1985, more than 28,000 athletes competed last year in 39 events. With two more sports added this year, organizers are expecting an increase in competitors, said Jennifer Horton, Show-Me State Games senior information specialist.

"We are hoping to have more, as we are always looking to grow and improve the event," Horton said.

Horton was not sure how many Southeast Missouri athletes compete in the Games, but she said the area is always well represented in Columbia.

"People there are always looking forward to the Games," she said.

One local team competing at the Games are the SEMO Sizzlers basketball team coached by Christa Millham.

Millham, who competed in the Games when she was in high school, said they provide an opportunity for players to perform against Missouri's best.

"It's a good opportunity to see what other kids are doing, not from just Southeast Missouri, but the entire state," she said. "It allows you to see how good others are and where you need to get to be the best."

Players from Cape Central, Delta, Jackson, Notre Dame and Perryville high schools will compete for the Sizzlers in the 16-and-under girls competitive division at the Games from July 23-25.

Millham said she does not want to lose, but winning is not the lone reason for competing at the Games.

"We want to get better," Millham said. "The reason we play is for the girls to improve for their high school teams, but it gives them something to play for."

SHOW-ME PARTICIPANTS

Local teams competing this weekend in the Show-Me State Games, with the number of teams in their bracket.

Basketball

11-and-under girls recreational (8) -- Patton Lady Panthers

11-and-under girls competitive (10) -- Jackson Magic

12-and-under boys recreational (14) -- Patton Panthers

Soccer

Under-7 boys open (5) -- Cape Crusaders

Under-9 girls competitive (5) -- Perryville Comets

Under-15 women's open (7) -- Perryville Blast