NFL player Miles Killebrew kicks off Utah Summer Games
By Nikki Koontz
Southern Utah University alumnus and current Detroit Lion Miles Killebrew is making a homecoming reunion during the opening ceremony June 14 at 8:30 p.m. Killebrew has the honor of running the Olympic-style torch around the stadium and lighting the caldron, which will officially kick off the 33rd annual Utah Summer Games.
According to the Detroit Lions’ website, Killebrew joined the Lions in 2016 as a fourth-round draft pick out of Southern Utah University, becoming the highest draft pick in the school’s history. He appeared in all 16 games as a rookie and picked off his first pass of the season against Saints quarterback Drew Brees. By the end of his career at SUU, Killebrew emerged as a leader on one of the stingiest defenses in the FCS. Killebrew finished his career with 356 tackles (210 solo), six and a half tackles for loss, four forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, three interceptions, seven pass defenses, and two defensive touchdowns. He was named All-Big Sky Honorable Mention twice, All-Big Sky Second Team once, and All-Big Sky First Team once.
“We are thrilled that Miles is coming back to support SUU and the Utah Summer Games,” said Mindy Benson, vice president of alumni and community relations. “Having Miles participate in the event really speaks to the athletic spirit of the games.”
Along with Killebrew’s appearance, people won’t want to miss this year’s featured performer, Steve Augeri, former lead vocalist from Journey. The opening ceremony will also include the athletes’ march, the Jazz Bear, family-friendly activities, and fireworks.
The opening ceremony starts at 8:30 p.m. at the SUU Eccles Coliseum. General admission is $5, and reserved seating is $8. Athletes can attend for free by wearing their official Utah Summer Games athlete t-shirt. There are no youth/child prices for this event. Tickets can be purchased at SUU’s America First Event Center Ticket Office at (435) 586-7872 or online. They are also available for purchase at the gate.
The Utah Summer Games has been held in Cedar City since 1986, hosting athletes of all ages and skill levels from across the western United States participating in more than 40 different competitive sporting events. The games continue to average a total of 9,600 participants, 50,000 spectators, and 1,000 volunteers with those numbers increasing each year.
The Utah Summer Games bring forward the best of the best through its Olympic-style athletic events to celebrate excellence in the human spirit and healthy lifestyles.
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