Diamond State Games set in Delaware

Frick's Picks by George Frick

Time's a wastin' for Downstate amateur athletes of all ages and talent levels who wish to "dig for gold" during the Diamond State Games II set for the weekend of June 21 and 22.

Upwards to 3,000 participants are expected to compete in 11 events for gold, silver and bronze medals in Olympics fashion during the two days. Action will take place at a variety of venues throughout Delaware, including Delaware State U. and Dover Bowl.

According to the Games' Executive Director Marshal Manlove of "Delaware Sports," a statewide sports television and management company, the first Diamond State Games in 2001 attracted nearly 2,000 athletes, ages 8 to 75, from 15 states and four countries who competed in just seven events. (Manlove, by the way, videotaped Caesar Rodney's state championship softball victory over Caravel Monday.)

The expanded 2003 agenda includes volleyball, track & field, softball, disc golf, wrestling, soccer, field hockey, flag football, basketball, bowling and paintball. The field hockey, volleyball and basketball competitions will feature Delaware teams comprised of top state high school athletes who have accepted invitations from the Diamond State Games to compete against teams invited from outside our borders.

Most of the Games' activities are free for you-all, the public, to attend. For those "out thar" who'd like to participate in the "gold rush," please note that very few days are left to sign up.

For computer buffs, complete details about Games II, including age and skill levels, can be found at www.diamondstategames.com.

Registration forms can be downloaded from the site ... or ordered by phone (the old-fashioned way) by calling (302) 731-1676. Have fun!!