By Lindsay Dawkins, Chief of Staff, Greater Jackson Chamber

In the summer of 2025, Jackson, Tennessee, will play host to an extraordinary event that embodies the spirit of sportsmanship, competition, and community—our very own State Games of Tennessee. Modeled after the Olympic Games, this inaugural event will bring together amateur athletes from across the state, showcasing their talents and fostering a sense of unity and pride within our community.

The State Games of Tennessee is part of a proud tradition that began with the Empire State Games in New York in 1978. Since then, the State Games movement has expanded to include 30 Summer State Games and 10 Winter State Games across the country. These events are more than just competitions; they are a motivational platform for over 265,000 athletes, supported by 30,000 volunteers and countless spectators annually. The State Games provide an invaluable opportunity for amateur athletes to compete at a high level within their home state, all under the banner of the National Congress of State Games, affiliated with the U.S. Olympic Committee.

Eligibility for the State Games of Tennessee is inclusive, extending to residents who have lived in the state for at least 30 days, students enrolled in Tennessee colleges and universities, and military personnel stationed here. This ensures that our games truly reflect the diversity and talent of Tennessee.

The inaugural State Games of Tennessee will be an exciting multi-sport event, featuring up to 15 sports, including softball, baseball, basketball, soccer, pickleball, disc golf, wedge golf, cross country, trail run, and tennis. Athletes and teams will compete for gold, silver, and bronze medals, with the top three finishers in each division earning the opportunity to compete in the prestigious State Games of America—a national Olympic-style event held every two years.

Hosting the State Games of Tennessee in Jackson is not just a point of pride for our community; it is a strategic opportunity to showcase our city's incredible facilities and infrastructure. Our existing venues, such as the West Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex, the Jackson Rockabillys stadium, and our parks, schools, and universities, provide a strong foundation for this event. The State Games will also serve as a catalyst for further enhancements, allowing us to methodically upgrade our parks and facilities as the event grows each year.

In Jackson and Madison County, we are experiencing remarkable momentum with the rapid pace of industrial, business, and residential growth. The State Games of Tennessee is yet another testament to the forward-thinking developments unfolding in our community. It highlights the exceptional things happening right here in Madison County and underscores our role as a vibrant, thriving hub within the state.

This event is not only an exciting opportunity for athletes but also for the entire community. The State Games of Tennessee will bring together people from all walks of life, fostering connections and celebrating the shared love of sport. The Opening Ceremonies will be a spectacle in itself, featuring a parade of athletes, live entertainment, the lighting of the torch, and much more—echoing the grandeur of the Olympic Games but rooted in the heart of Tennessee.

As we look forward to June 2025, I encourage everyone in Jackson-Madison County to get involved—whether as athletes, volunteers, or spectators. The State Games of Tennessee is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of our community, our state, and the spirit of camaraderie that binds us all together. Let’s come together to make this inaugural event a resounding success and a proud chapter in the history of Jackson, Tennessee.

Share Page: