Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco received the loudest ovation of the day at the opening ceremonies of the Maryland Special Olympics Summer Games. Flacco joined other Maryland sports celebrities, including figure skater Kimmie Meissner and Baltimore's Marching Ravens. This is Flacco's third year helping with the Special Olympics, according to a story on Gazette.Net. Joe says in the story:

"The first time you come out here, it’s tough not to do it again," said Flacco, in his third year working with the Special Olympics. "You see the excitement in there and it’s just a good thing to be a part of."

Over 1,400 athletes will compete in the three-day event being held at Towson University, with competition in track and field, cheerleading, equestrian events, swimming, bocce and softball. There will be social events as well as a great experience for the athletes, who will stay in the dormitories on campus for the games.

Flacco was recently at Towson's Johnny Unitas Stadium for the Ravens' players-only workout last month, although he hopes the NFL labor dispute will be settled before he needs to be part of another similar unofficial practice with his teammates.