LINCOLN, Neb. (October 30, 2014) — Amateur athletes and teams from Nebraska are eligible to enter the 2015 State Games of America (SGA) in Lincoln, Nebraska,July 28–August 2, 2015. The SGA is the largest Olympic-style sports festival in the nation, with 20,000 athletes expected to compete in more than 60 sports and recreational events with multiple age divisions and skill levels. Online registration is open at SGA2015.com.

For Nebraskans, the 2015 SGA replaces this year’s Cornhusker State Games and provides a unique opportunity to compete in a national event close to home. The Nebraska Sports Council (NSC) is organizing the 2015 SGA, and they expect it to be the largest State Games of America ever. NSC Executive Director Dave Mlnarik says participation by Nebraskans will be a key to success.

“We know Nebraskans will enjoy the opportunity to compete against some of the best amateur athletes from across the nation,” said Mlnarik. “We’re counting on them to help our guests have a great experience at the State Games of America.”

Most competitors from other states must qualify for the 2015 SGA by medaling in a sanctioned state games competition. Qualifying is waived for developing sports, including adventure racing, chess, pocket billiards, horseshoe pitching, water skiing, sailing, sport skydiving and open water swimming.

Mlnarik says recreational athletes who have competed in the Cornhusker State Games should feel right at home even if they’ve never entered a national event. “We want Nebraskans to know they don’t have to be elite athletes to participate in the State Games of America. Competing with others from around the country who share your passion for a sport will be a rewarding experience,” said Mlnarik.

The 2015 State Games of America will feature venues used for high-level collegiate and high school competitions, including facilities at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and University of Nebraska–Omaha. Opening ceremonies will take place at Memorial Stadium, and the Athletes Village will be anchored at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln and Ralston Arena for Omaha-area participants.

The opening of registration was announced at the annual NSC Awards Banquet at the Del Ray Ballroom in Lincoln. Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman spoke about the importance of the State Games of America event to the state. Nebraska native and Olympic gold and bronze medalist Curtis Tomasevicz–who participated in the Cornhusker State Games as a youth–says he’s looking forward to the 2015 SGA.

“The Cornhusker State Games always provided a great experience and helped fuel my desire to improve and grow as an athlete and a person. I’m proud and excited that Nebraska is hosting next year’s State Games of America, and I plan to be there. I hope all Nebraska athletes will join in the fun, and I’m sure they’ll be great ambassadors for the state,” Tomasevicz said.

Gov. Heineman and Lincoln Mayor Chris Beutler praised the NSC for its work and encouraged all Nebraskans to participate, volunteer or donate. The event will require 5,000 volunteers, double the amount for the annual Cornhusker State Games, and Mlnarik reported that the fundraising campaign is at 80 percent of its $1 million goal.

Details regarding events, registration and the host city of Lincoln are available at SGA2015.com. Follow State Games of America on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.