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CORVALLIS, Ore. - Special Olympics Oregon will move its Summer State Games to Oregon State University and venues around Corvallis beginning in 2017. The games are scheduled for July 8-9 next year.

With more than 2,000 athletes, 600 coaches and 1,400 volunteers, the event is one of Oregon's largest and most significant sports and humanitarian efforts. The games have been held in Newberg, Oregon, for the past six years.

"SOOR is thrilled to partner with Corvallis and Oregon State on this statewide event," said Margie Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon. "OSU has clearly adopted the games and is just as committed as we are to creating an unbelievable experience for our participants and their families."

Summer State Games participants will be housed at Oregon State and the event is being supported by the OSU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and University Housing and Dining Services, as well as other campus groups.

"We are very proud and honored to partner with Special Olympics Oregon," said OSU President Ed Ray. "Special Olympics Oregon is a wonderful organization and to have Oregon State University host this event in 2017 and into the future is extraordinarily gratifying."

Although planning for next year's Summer State Games is in the early stages, SOOR officials say they are looking to hold the Games Ceremony at Reser Stadium, bocce at other OSU facilities, track and field at Corvallis High School, golf at Trysting Tree Golf Course, and softball at both OSU and Philomath High School.

An "Olympic Town" will be set up in Parker Plaza outside of Reser Stadium.