What is the State Games of Mississippi?
The State Games of Mississippi is an annual multi-sport event, modeled after the Olympic Games, designed and held solely for the residents of Mississippi. The State Games concept was developed in New York in 1978 with the Empire State Games, and today 35 states currently conduct State Games. The State Games of Mississippi is a member of the National Congress of State Games, which is affiliated with the U. S. Olympic Committee.

Since the inaugural State Games of Mississippi in 1991, more than 70,000 athletes from more than 350 Mississippi communities have participated in the Games. In 2010, more than 5000 athletes participated in 29 sports with the help of 500 volunteers.

When and where are the Games held?
The State Games of Mississippi are held in June. Opening Ceremonies are always the 3rd Friday of June in downtown Meridian.   The majority of the sporting events are held in the Meridian area; however several sports are hosted in other parts of the state.  Check specific sports pages for details.

What is Opening Ceremonies?

In the tradition of the Olympic Games, a gala Opening Ceremonies is held at Dumont Plaza in downtown Meridian. The 2011 ceremonies will be held June 17. Pre-ceremony events begin at 5:30 p.m. The evening features the parade of athletes, exciting live entertainment,  the lighting of the torch, and a fantastic fireworks show.

What is the purpose of the State Games of Mississippi? 
The State Games of Mississippi is a privately-sponsored, non-profit organization that promotes amateur athletics and healthy lifestyles for Mississippians of all ages and abilities

Who is Eligible?
A participant must be a resident of the State of Mississippi for at least 30 days prior to the date of the competition they wish to enter. College students and military personnel living in the state for at least 30 days may participate. Mississippi residents attending college or serving in the military in another state are also eligible to compete.

What awards are given at the State Games of Mississippi?

Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals are awarded to the top three athletes in each division of all sports. 

What sports are offered?

  • 5K Road Race,
  • Tennis,
  • Archery,
  • Barrel Racing,
  • All Star Baseball,
  • High School Baseball,
  • Youth Baseball,
  • Jr. High Baseball
  • Adult Basketball,
  • High School Basketball,
  • Bowling,
  • Canoe/Kayak,
  • Cross Country,
  • Cycling,
  • Fencing
  • Flag Football
  • Judo,
  • Junior Golf,
  • Martial Arts,
  • Mountain Biking,
  • Power Lifting, 
  • Soccer,
  • Softball,
  • Stickball,
  • Swimming,
  • Volleyball

How do I register?
Registration may be done online or by mailing in a registration form downloaded from our web site.  Many sports also allow day-of-event registration.  See specific sports pages for details.

May I participate in more than one sport?
Athletes may compete in any number of sports. Conflicts in scheduling are the responsibility of the athlete. 

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?
Refunds are allowed in the following circumstances only:
 • Entries received after the maximum number has been accepted
• Entries received in a division that is cancelled due to minimal entries
• Entries of non-qualified participants
• Entries received after the deadline
A $5 processing fee will be assessed to all refunds.

What happens in case of inclement weather?
Sports using outdoor sites are weather dependent. Competitions will be conducted unless the commissioners and State Games staff determine that the weather conditions are dangerous or life threatening. There are no rain dates; no refunds will be given. Softball players refer to Softball sport information.

Does the State Games of Mississippi provide insurance?
It is expressly understood that the State Games of Mississippi does not insure against, and accepts no responsibility for, personal injury, property loss or damage to the participants as a result of his or her participation. Each participant is responsible for his or her own medical insurance and must sign a release of liability waiver. 

What are the rules of conduct?
 Athletes and coaches are responsible for knowing, understanding and following the rules, policies, and code of conduct for their sport. Games organizers reserve the right to disqualify any participant from competition in the State Games of Mississippi, for any the following reasons:
false representation, improper use of alcohol and/or drugs, destruction of property, unsportsmanlike or disorderly behavior, or rules infraction. 

Can I advance to other competitions?
Yes, depending on the sport.  All participants in the State Games of Mississippi are eligible to compete in the Southeast Sports Festival held on even numbered years.  Go to southeastsportsfestival.org to see the sports that are included and the location of the next event.

All medalists are eligible to compete in the State Games of America held each odd numbered year.  Go to stategamesofamerica.org to see the sports that are included and the location of the next event.