LOS ANGELES – If you can’t get to Greece this summer, you can see the best in high school athletic talent at the L.A. Watts Summer Games. With a prestigious list of alumni including Lisa Leslie, Byron Scott, Florence Griffith Joyner, John Elway, and Valerie Brisco Hooks, to name only a few, the Games are an opportunity to see potential Olympians or professional athletes.

The Games began with the Opening Ceremonies at the Home Depot Center. Special guests included Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald, L.A. County Supervisor Yvonne B. Burke, boxing heavyweight champion Lamon Brewster, and William E. Sims, one of the originators of the Games. All spoke of the incredible good the Games does for the youth of Southern California. Mr. Sims explained the hardships the Games encountered before getting off the ground, and expressed his satisfaction at what the Games have become. Lamon Brewster shared the experiences growing up and how turning to sports helped him focus and achieve his goals. Many athletes and spectators were in awe at Mr. Brewster’s heavyweight belt and were inspired by his story of success.

The Games will continue on Sunday, June 20 and next weekend, June 26 and 27. See the results and game schedules below for further details.

All events are free and open to the public and press credentials are not required. Parking is free at all venues. Food and beverages are available for purchase at the Home Depot Center. Schedules and brackets can be found on the Games website at www.lajcc.org.