(FOX11) - Thousands of delegates from across teh globe were greeted with cheers adn high fives as they arrived at the UCLA campus Friday, just one day before the 2015 Special Olympics World Games commence.
"Excited, really excited," Head of the Serbian Delegation Nemanja Stanojevic said.
"I can't wait for my boys and girls to get in t their rooms, unpack and start the games," Stanojevic said.
Member of the Canadian Rhythmic Gymnastics Team Celine Labrecque says she's revealing in the newness and excitement of the games. This is her first time competing in the Special Olympics.
"It's overwhelming, it's exciting, it's cool, it's new and everyone here, the high fives from everyone here just felt really good," Labrecque said.
All 6,500 athletes will either be staying at UCLA or USC through the games.
Assistant Vice Chancellor of UCLA's Campus Life Mick Deluca says the logistics for the athletes stay took three years to plan.
"This is going to be so inspirational. thinking of having folks from all around the world and this idea of respect, acceptance and inclusion is something UCLA and even that crosstown rival USC represent. So, I think this is really an event for all people and we're most excited for that experience," Deluca said.
Team Brazil arrived with cheers, one member came out blowing kisses. Breno Viola Cunha is a star on the Judo Team. He says he did well during the Athens games and he's ready to gold medal here in Los Angeles.
"My team and country is grateful to be here," Cunha said in Portuguese.
Not only did the athletes arrive Friday, the Special Olympics Festival in Wilson Plaza began.
The free festival will continue through August 2nd. The festival will include music, food trucks and more. The public will also have the opportunity to meet the athletes as they will attend the festival in between competitions.
For more information click here. http://www.la2015.org/special-events-programs/festivals-entertainment