Oklahoma City Celebrated National Olympic and Paralympic Day with LA28 Day of Sport Events

Youth experienced Games-inspired sports and activities as Oklahoma City continued its journey toward LA28 Olympic Games

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (June 26, 2026) — Oklahoma City joined communities across the country celebrating National Olympic and Paralympic Day, and millions more around the world celebrating International Olympic Day 

through a series of LA28’s Day of Sport activations that inspired youth participation, promoted healthy lifestyles and brought the Olympic spirit to life.

Led by local partners including Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation and the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, with support from USA Softball, RIVERSPORT OKC and the Oklahoma City Thunder, the events introduced hundreds of young participants to Olympic and Paralympic sports while highlighting Oklahoma City's role in the Olympic Movement ahead of the LA28 Olympic Games.

"Oklahoma City is honored to be part of the Olympic and Paralympic journey leading up to LA28," said Michael Byrnes, President of Team OKC. "Day of Sport gave young people across our community the opportunity to experience the excitement, values and inspiration of the Games while learning more about the sports and athletes that will help shape our Olympic future."

Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation and YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Day of Sport

On Friday, June 26, more than 250 students from Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation community centers and YMCA locations across the metro gathered at Woodson Sports Complex for a full day of Olympic-inspired activities.

Participants rotated through sport stations featuring:

• Softball

• Rowing

• Football/Soccer

• Flag Football

• Artistic Gymnastics

• Track & Field

• Wheelchair Basketball

“The Olympic Games inspire budding athletes around the world,” said Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation Department Director Melinda McMillan-Miller. “Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation was thrilled to be a part of this once-in-a-generation experience and to help introduce local youth to the power of sport and the Olympic Movement.”

RIVERSPORT OKC Day of Sport

Earlier in the week, on Tuesday, June 23, RIVERSPORT OKC hosted a Day of Sport celebration that welcomed approximately 150 participants for a day of adventure, competition and Olympic-themed programming.

Activities included:

• Opening Ceremonies and Parade of Nations

• Kayaking

• Climbing

• Surfing

• Rowing

• Whitewater

• Closing Ceremonies

Paris 2024 gold medalist Sydney Satchell (Sitting Volleyball) inspired participants by sharing her Olympic story and presenting medals to youth. The event took place throughout the day at RIVERSPORT and gave participants a firsthand opportunity to engage in sports that embody the spirit of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Inspiring the Next Generation

National Olympic and Paralympic Day and International Olympic Day are celebrated annually in the U.S. and around the world to encourage people of all ages to move, learn and discover sport. Through LA28’s Day of Sport programming, youth participants have the opportunity to experience the power of sport while learning about the values of excellence, friendship and respect that define the Olympic Movement.

As excitement builds toward the LA28 Olympic Games, Oklahoma City continues to build excitement and community engagement leading up to 2028, when the world's attention will turn to the city for Slalom Paddle and Softball competition.

Additional details regarding participating athletes and special guests will be announced at a later date.

About Team OKC

Team OKC serves as the local organizing entity supporting Oklahoma City's role in the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Oklahoma City will stage Slalom Paddle and Softball competitions during the 2028 Olympic Games.