Category: Summer Games

“We’re going to be lifelong friends even after volleyball is all said and done,” said Finger Lake Aces athlete Christopher Scheible.

As the Finger Lakes Aces prepare to represent Team New York at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, the team is chasing more than a gold medal. For the athletes and coaches who have spent years together on the court, the trip is another opportunity to share an experience with the people they consider family.

“We became a family, a brotherhood,” Scheible said. “We are all brothers around one another. We like to tease and laugh and play jokes on each other. But we do that out of love. We love each other, we love the sport, and we help each other up.”

Teammate Mitchell Chesher echoed that sentiment.

“We do a lot more than just play volleyball together,” Chesher said. “We go out to dinner, compete in other sports, and spend time together off the court. We’re family.”

For many of the athletes, those bonds have been built over decades. Chesher has been a member of the team since 2006, while captain Scott Witherow helped form the Finger Lakes Aces 24 years ago. Together, they have helped create a culture that welcomes new athletes while maintaining the close-knit atmosphere synonymous with the team.

As one of the team’s longest-tenured members, Witherow takes pride in helping new athletes feel welcomed and supported.

“I can keep these guys in line and give them encouragement,” Witherow said. “I often tell the new guys, we all make mistakes, but I believe in every one of them.”

That culture of support and friendship didn’t happen by accident. Head coach Steven Marshall has spent the past 24 years building one of the most successful volleyball programs in Special Olympics New York, but he credits much of the team’s success to the athletes themselves.

“I only have three new players over the last 10 years, but they fit right in,” Marshall said. “I don’t make them fit in. I want the guys to welcome them, support them, and make them feel like part of the team, and they do it on their own.”

That sense of support extends beyond welcoming new teammates. Over the years, Marshall has worked to create an environment where athletes are encouraged to grow, compete, and challenge themselves while knowing they have the backing of their coaches and teammates.

“We don’t want to push them too far,” Marshall said. “But we don’t want to cheat them of what their abilities are, so we make it work.”

That philosophy has translated into success on the court. The Finger Lakes Aces have captured 22 consecutive state championships while maintaining the family atmosphere that players say keeps them coming back year after year

“I used to take a month off between sports, but they kept bugging me to start the new season the next week,” Marshall said with a laugh. “I usually give in because they just want to be together. I couldn’t ask for a better group of guys.”

Assistant coach Mark Scheible has witnessed that bond grow over the years.

“I’ve been their biggest fan since my youngest started in 2014,” Scheible said. “As a spectator and now as an assistant coach, they’ve come such a long way. There’s a wide range of age groups, but they just gel, and it’s fun to watch.”

That bond will soon take center stage on one of the biggest stages in Special Olympics. The trip to Minneapolis marks the Finger Lakes Aces’ first appearance at the USA Games since 2014, when the team captured a bronze medal in New Jersey. More than a decade later, the Aces are preparing for another opportunity to represent Team New York and build on that success.

While the team hopes to come home with the gold this time around, Scheible said success will be measured by more than the final standings. As both a coach and the father of Aces athlete Christopher Scheible, he has seen firsthand how much the opportunity means to the team.

“They know what they’re going to be up against with some of these teams,” Scheible said. “The big thing is knowing they gave it their all. They’ll have a blast, but they’ll know they gave it their best.”

Scheible believes the athletes are well prepared for the challenge ahead. Many have years of tournament experience and understand the commitment required to compete at a high level.

“We will have nothing to worry about with these guys,” Scheible said. “They are seasoned tournament-goers.”

At the same time, the Aces are not lacking confidence.

Athlete Andy Marshall, the son of head coach Steven Marshall, believes the team’s chemistry and experience give them a legitimate chance to compete for a national championship.

“It’s about teamwork and constant communication,” Marshall said. “If we play our best, there is no other team that can take the gold away from us.”

Steven Marshall has made sure his athletes understand the challenge that awaits them, but he also knows what has made the Finger Lakes Aces successful for more than two decades.

“I told them they have to come back to New York with gold,” Marshall said with a smile. “They are motivating each other, and that’s what’s important to these guys. They know the ins and outs of all their teammates. They know who they have to support and back up.”

As the Finger Lakes Aces prepare to take the national stage once again, they will do so with the same bond that has fueled the program for more than two decades.

“This team is more than just friends for life. They are all family to me,” Witherow said. “I love all these guys. They are the best guys I can be around.”

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2026 Games to Bring 1,200 Athletes & Coaches to Utica from Across New York

Utica, NY – The 2026 Special Olympics New York State Summer Games are coming to Oneida County June 5-6 in what will be the largest statewide sporting event offered for athletes with intellectual disabilities of the year. The Games will bring together more than 1,200 athletes and coaches from across the state to compete in six sports: Basketball, Powerlifting, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, and Volleyball.

Utica University will serve as the hub of State Summer Games, with Opening & Closing Ceremonies and most of the sports competitions held on site. Additional venues are Adirondack Bank Center (Powerlifting), Hamilton College (swimming), City of Utica (tennis) and Mohawk Valley Community College (volleyball).

In addition to the sports competitions, State Summer Games includes a signature Special Olympics New York Opening Ceremony Friday night and a Victory Dance Saturday night, where participants and the community come together to celebrate inclusion. The Games will also include a first-of-its-kind Health Fest, where athletes – as well as prospective athletes in the community – can receive free health screenings in dentistry, audiology, physical therapy, optometry, general health and social/emotional health.  

All State Summer Games events are OPEN PRESS and free to attend. The full public schedule is as follows.

Friday, June 5 

8:00 – 9:00 p.m. Opening Ceremonies, Gaetano Stadium, Utica University, 1600 Burrstone Rd., Utica 

Note: This event will be streamed live on the Special Olympics New York Facebook page.

Saturday, June 6 

Sports Competition at various venues, from approximately 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 

• Track & Field, Casamento Field, Utica University, 1600 Burrstone Rd., Utica
• Basketball, Hutton Dome & Clark Center, Utica University, 1600 Burrstone Rd., Utica
• Swimming, Hamilton College Pool, 198 College Hill Rd., Clinton
• Tennis, City of Utica Tennis Center, 210 Memorial Parkway, Utica
• Volleyball, Mohawk Valley Community College, 1101 Sherman Dr., Utica
• Powerlifting, Adirondack Bank Center, 400 Oriskany St. West, Utica
  • Note: Powerlifting will be streamed live on the Special Olympics New York YouTube page. 

 4:30 – 8:30 p.m. Health Fest, Hutton Dome, Utica University, 1600 Burrstone Rd., Utica 

Note: This event is open to people with intellectual disabilities interested in joining as an athlete, as well as athletes in the Utica area who are not participating in State Summer Games. 

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Victory Dance, Hutton Dome, Utica University, 1600 Burrstone Rd., Utica

The 2026 State Summer Games are presented by Oneida County, with support from the following partners: Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Utica National Insurance, Chobani, Mohawk Valley Health Systems, Gallagher, NBT Bank, New York Elks Major Projects, Bank of Utica, Wellnow, UFCW, National Grid, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, Perinton Ambulance, First Student, BBL Hospitality, Northwell, Federation of New York Insurance Professionals, Save of the Day Foundation, First Source Federal Credit Union, Ward Arcuri, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, Jersey Mike’s, Wrap Kingz, and New Era Cap Foundation.

“The State Summer Games are one of the most meaningful moments of the year for our athletes, and they are excited to be celebrating with a community that values inclusion as much as we do,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We are incredibly grateful to Oneida County, the city of Utica and all three of the colleges and universities that will be opening their doors wide for our athletes, coaches and families. The 2026 State Summer Games is shaping up to be our best yet!”

To volunteer or make a donation to support the 2026 State Summer Games, visit: https://www.specialolympics-ny.org/community/summer-games/. 

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By Randy Robertson, NYC and Hudson Valley Regional Storyteller

The free throw clanked off the front of the rim, and all the Wildcats knew what to do: head to the baseline and run a sprint up and down the court. On a recent Saturday morning in Harlem, the Manhattan Wildcats were preparing for their trip to the Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota beginning June 20.

While much of the neighborhood was still waking up, the outside calm belied a marvelous gathering of loud and energetic athletes. The Wildcats were off and running early this morning, with a heavy emphasis on running!

“The coaches keep us in shape with lots of running,” Wildcats athlete Michael Ayers said. “But it’s ok, we’re used to it. You should see us at soccer practice we do even more running there!”

Ayers wore a sweat-soaked Brooklyn Nets shirt and a wide smile. Despite the challenge of all the early morning sprints, Ayers, 26, was an eager participant. And while many of these emerging basketball stars were playing other sports such as soccer just a few months ago, the focus was clearly on basketball on this day.

Coaches David Sehl, Katelyn Maroney and William Colon know that they can’t coax any more height out of their mid-sized team in the next few weeks. These young adults are as tall as they’re going to get!  But, with a little extra practice and determination, they might be able to squeeze just enough conditioning into the team to make a difference in a close game or two in the Traditional division at the USA Games.

“We need to work on our free throws, and at the same time we want them to be in the best shape possible,” Coach Maroney said. “We have to make our free throws. And we can’t be tired out there, especially at the end of games. So that’s why we started this practice with free throws and running sprints.”

After the usual sprints to start practice, the Wildcats took turns shooting one free throw and the requirement was simple: make the free throw and sprints are done, miss and everyone runs again. This went on for nearly five minutes, and all the players were actively running and pushing themselves. That impressed Coach Maroney.

“David and I put a lot into the culture and what we expect from the players,” said Maroney, a Brigham Young University graduate who helped start Manhattan’s first Special Olympics community soccer team a few years ago.

That culture includes running of course, and it also is about competing and giving your best effort every time. Coach Sehl provided a great example at practice on Saturday. With several players unavailable to practice, Sehl joined in so they could scrimmage five-on-five. Within the first two minutes, he landed on an athlete’s shoe and turned his ankle. Though visibly pained for a few minutes, Sehl shook it off and returned to continue practicing for another full hour.

“I played today just literally out of necessity,” Sehl said. “We only had 9 guys out there, so I had to jump in. Usually I’ll just let them go, but sometimes if I feel like they need to push, me or one of the other coaches will jump in and just try to get things moving a little bit. I feel like it can be a good motivator sometimes to get the competitive juices flowing.”

Coach Sehl, 33, has been hooping and coaching with the Wildcats for more than two decades already, having started with the Special Olympics as part of a seventh-grade school project. From those early teenage days, he always found the Special Olympics and this Manhattan Wildcats team to be one of his favorite activities.

“I grew up in NYU faculty housing, because my mom taught graduate school,” Sehl recalled. “The Wildcats used to practice at the NYU gym back in the day, the old Cole Sports Center. So my dad was like, oh, I heard there’s a Special Olympics practice, basketball practice, let’s go check it out. So I went, I spoke to a few of the coaches there and they were like, oh, you should stay for practice. I stayed, loved it and wrote my paper. I started as a volunteer, then started coaching. We did OK, and there also were some rough years and we had a tough time winning games. Luckily, Katelyn came out from Utah, and she’s been like a Godsend. So I help her with soccer, she helps with basketball, and we just make it work.”

While Maroney joined more recently, Coach Colon has been a presence almost throughout Sehl’s tenure here. Colon, a 6-foot-8 center, anchored the Wildcats defense for many years as an athlete before shifting over to coaching recently. He noted what a major impact the Special Olympics and Coach Sehl have had on his life.

“David has always been a mentor to me,” Coach Colon said. “I’ve been playing with him since I was young, back in 2004.”

Though Colon’s playing days are over, he’s joyful to stay involved, always encouraging the younger Wildcats and teaching them the importance of defense. The Wildcats play a 2-3 zone about 90% of the time the coaches estimated, and it has been very successful for them over the years.

It was at the 2024 State Games in Ithaca, NY that the Manhattan Wildcats took a giant leap forward. The Wildcats won the State Games that year and qualified for this year’s USA Games. They’ve used the past year and a half to train hard, add a few specific offensive and inbound plays and to really come together as a team, not a collection of individual players. That’s a key part of the culture that Coach Maroney mentioned.

“These guys are my family and my friends,” Ayers said. “We share the ball, we pass the ball and we play as a team.”

A connection in recent years to the strong Unified and Traditional sports programs at P721M in Manhattan helped fuel the Wildcats rise. The P721M City Hawks will be sending a Traditional soccer team to the USA Games in June. In addition, talented basketball players such as Ayers, Kenny Kinsey and twins Christian Lopez and Christopher Lopez shifted from the P721M program to the Wildcats community team after aging out of the school program.

“They are such a big asset to the team,” Coach Maroney said of the Lopez twins. “They play pickup basketball every day in the park too. In our games they’re really good at communicating and pushing their teammates.”

Coach Maroney noted that Christian Lopez scored nearly 30 points in a recent game at the Fieldston Games in the Bronx. That kind of on-court leadership and skill level will be a key factor in the team’s success at the USA Games.

The Wildcats are eager for the opportunity to shine on a bigger stage.  After taking first place at the State Games for the past two years, the Wildcats are ready for the big challenge coming their way in Minnesota.

“We’re going for the gold,” Ayers said. “We want to win it.”

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This event will take place on Saturday, June 6th from 11AM – 2PM at the Utica University Sports Dome in conjunction with our State Summer Games weekend. Activities will include local health provider connections, individual/family/circle of care wellness resources, upcoming fitness opportunities, and of course, our Healthy Athletes screenings! 

People with disabilities live with significant unmet health needs and health disparities compared to the general population. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are more than twice as likely to die prematurely than the general population, and have significantly higher rates of mental illness, obesity, and other health conditions. These disparities are not due to the person’s disability, rather to inaccessible health promotion and disease prevention services: everything from fitness and physical activity services to health education delivery is rarely adapted to their needs. – Health Disparities of People with IDD, SOI Center for Inclusive Health  

Healthy Athletes provides free preventative health screenings and education to our athletes in several health disciplines. The screenings also equip individuals with essentials they need to live healthier lives, such as the following: New prescription glasses, toothbrushes, sunscreen, stretching bands, and earplugs, to name a few. We work with trained health professionals and student volunteers to lead these screenings. This event’s screenings will be led by the following clinicians: 

• Opening Eyes: Dr. Judith Archibold – Ophthalmic Consultants of the Capital Region 
• Health Promotion: Dr. Meghan Klawonn, Upstate Medical University 
• Special Smile: Dr. Sarah Barry, Neighborhood Health Center 
• Healthy Hearing: Dr. Elizabeth Runnion, Nazareth University & Dr. Krishna Rodemerk, UR Medicine Audiology 
• FUN Fitness: Dr. Sarah Overton, Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence 

We’re very excited to offer our health programs to local athletes and hope to engage individuals with IDD who are not yet Special Olympics athletes to join and experience all of the incredible benefits that we have to offer! 

If you’re interested in attending this event – RSVP here 

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2026 Games To Bring 1,200 Athletes & Coaches to Utica from Across New York

Utica, NY – The 2026 Special Olympics New York State Summer Games are coming to Oneida County June 5-6 in what will be the largest statewide sporting event offered for athletes with intellectual disabilities of the year. The Games will bring together more than 1,200 athletes and coaches from across the state to compete in six sports: Basketball, Powerlifting, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, and Volleyball.

Local athletes and leaders held a press conference today to announce the details of the event and ask the community to help fill more than 300 volunteer jobs.

Volunteers are asked to Register Here.

“The State Summer Games are one of the most meaningful moments of the year for our athletes, and they are excited to be celebrating with a community that values inclusion as much as we do,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We are incredibly grateful to Oneida County, the city of Utica and all three of the colleges and universities that will be opening their doors wide for our athletes, coaches and families. Once we have the volunteers in place, I have a feeling this State Summer Games will be our best yet.”

Utica University will serve as the hub of State Summer Games, with Opening & Closing Ceremonies and most of the sports competitions held on site, including Powerlifting at the Nexus Center. The campus will also provide housing and meals for athletes and coaches. Additional venues are Hamilton College (swimming), City of Utica (tennis) and Mohawk Valley Community College (volleyball).

In addition to the sports competitions, State Summer Games will include: a signature Special Olympics Opening Ceremony where participants and the community come together to celebrate inclusion, a victory dance, and a Healthy Athletes event where athletes can receive free health screenings in several disciplines.

Approximately 300 volunteer jobs are available to support the Games. No experience is necessary to volunteer. There is a range of jobs for individuals and groups, including set up, parking assistance, meal distribution, athlete escorts, photographers, timers, scorekeepers and more.

Special Olympics New York is also seeking licensed health professionals, medical students and general volunteers for its Healthy Athlete offerings, which will include free screenings in dentistry, audiology, physical therapy, optometry, general health and social/emotional health on Friday, June 5 and Saturday, June 6. 

“This is exactly the kind of event that brings out the very best in Oneida County,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “We are honored to host the 2026 Special Olympics New York State Summer Games and welcome more than 1,200 athletes and coaches to our community. These games are about more than competition, they are a powerful celebration of inclusion, determination and community. I encourage residents, businesses and organizations across our county to step up and volunteer, because it will take all of us to make this an unforgettable experience for these incredible athletes.”

“We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to host this remarkable event,” said Utica University President Dr. Stephanie Nesbitt. “The spirit of the Special Olympics captures everything that our University and broader community stand for. We cannot wait to welcome the athletes, coaches, and volunteers and provide them all with an experience both in and out of competition that they will long remember.” 

“I could not be more proud to have our City assist in hosting the Special Olympics,” said Utica Mayor Mike Galime. “Our entire region will be brightened by this event. The anticipation is felt locally, and we wish all the athletes the best of luck in the Games.”

The 2026 State Summer Games are presented by Oneida County and additionally sponsored by Utica National Insurance, Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Gallagher, UFCW, Chobani, Bank of Utica, Elks Major Projects, Mohawk Valley Health Systems, National Grid, NBT Bank, Wellnow, BBL Hospitality, WrapKingz, and New Era Cap Foundation.

To volunteer or make a donation to support the 2026 State Summer Games, visit: https://www.specialolympics-ny.org/community/summer-games/. 

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Student-run and always amazing. That’s the best way to describe our annual RPI basketball competition.

Every year, athletes, students, and fans gather at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s East Campus Athletic Village for one of the region’s best competitions of the year. When you hear the rubber thumping, the shoes squeaking, and the nylon swishing, you know what sport it is. Basketball!

“The event began back in 2016,” said Katie Paradise, RPI’s Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator. “It’s been one of our favorite events to host every spring on campus.”

This year, 10 teams from the Capital and North Country Regions competed in both traditional team and skills basketball competitions.

“[This is] our SAAC group’s biggest event,” said Katie (SAAC stands for “Student Athletic Advisory Committee”). “Over the years, we have drawn in all 23 athletic teams and created an unforgettable Opening Ceremonies tradition. Our student-athletes all gather in the gym and create a tunnel for the Special Olympics athletes to run through as a team and collect high fives, leading into the kickoff of the event.”

It’s truly an inspiring sight, and the energy remained high throughout the day. At this year’s event, for example, RPI’s women’s hockey team rooted on a close matchup between the Adirondack Tigers and Uncle Sam’s Slammers, high-fiving and six-sevening with athletes after every score.

“Our partnership with Special Olympics [began] in the fall of 2011,” Katie explained. “We aimed to enhance the lives of Division III student-athletes and Special Olympics athletes through a mutual learning experience by providing a platform for recognition of Special Olympics athletes within their communities.”

The result? An unforgettable competition for all involved.

“It’s an all-hands-on-deck approach by our student-athletes to raise the bar each year,” said Katie. “We really bring a lot of hype into the gym for this event.”

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Special Olympics athlete Thierno Diop based in NYC.

Thierno, a Unified Champion Schools Athlete (UCS) based in NYC, has been actively engaged with Special Olympics for four years, participating in basketball and soccer as an athlete while attending 721M as a high school student.

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Largest Statewide Competition for Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities

Utica, NY – Special Olympics New York, Utica University and community leaders today announced that the Utica community will host the Special Olympics New York State Summer Games for the next three years.

State Summer Games is the largest statewide competition for athletes with intellectual disabilities. The Games will be offered each June for more than 1,200 athletes and coaches from across the state to compete in six sports: Basketball, Powerlifting, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, and Volleyball.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Utica University and the surrounding communities to give our athletes a first-class State Summer Games where they will go for the gold in their favorite sports, reconnect with friends from all across New York, and meet new volunteers,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President & CEO of Special Olympics New York. “Making this three-year commitment to inclusion is a significant undertaking, and we are so grateful to our partners for their collaboration and support.”

“We’re excited to welcome more than 1,200 Special Olympics athletes and their coaches and families. With the support of the community, I know we’re going to make this a weekend to remember for everyone involved,” said Utica University President Todd Pfannestiel. “This is such a natural fit on so many levels, but in particular, the Special Olympics mission of providing opportunity aligns so closely with our own. We’re happy to have the Games back in Utica for three years and hopefully longer, and we cannot wait for next June to be here.”

“We are honored that the Special Olympics New York State Summer Games will be held in Oneida County for the next three years,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “This is more than a sporting event—it’s a celebration of courage, determination and inclusion. We look forward to welcoming these incredible athletes, their families and supporters and showing them the warmth, pride and spirit that define our community.”

In addition to the sports competitions, State Summer Games also includes a signature Special Olympics Opening Ceremony where participants and the community come together to celebrate inclusion, activities for aspiring young athletes from local elementary schools, a victory dance and a Healthy Athletes event where athletes receive free health screenings in several disciplines such as vision care, dental care, hearing, podiatry, nutrition and mental health.

Utica University will serve as the hub of State Summer Games, with Opening & Closing Ceremonies and most of the sports competitions held on site. The campus will also provide housing and meals for athletes and coaches. Additional venues slated to host State Summer Games events include Hamilton College (swimming), City of Utica (tennis) and Mohawk Valley Community College (volleyball).

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1,200 Athletes & Coaches to Compete in Largest Statewide Competition of 2025 

Ithaca, NY – The largest Special Olympics New York competition of the year is a little more than a week away. More than 1,200 Special Olympics New York athletes and coaches from throughout New York will be in Broome and Tompkins Counties for State Summer Games, Friday, June 20, and Saturday, June 21. 

“After months of training and hard work, our athletes are more than ready to go for the gold in seven sports,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We are so thankful to the local community for supporting the Games for the fourth year in a row. Get ready, Ithaca—this is going to be our best Summer Games yet!” 

Venues hosting the Games are the following: Ithaca College (Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Swimming, Powerlifting); Ithaca High School (Track & Field, Basketball Skills); Midway Lanes (Bowling); and Cornell University (Basketball, Tennis, and Volleyball). 

All State Summer Games events are OPEN PRESS and free to attend. The public schedule is as follows: 

FRIDAY, JUNE 20 

Fitness Performance Stations  

Friday, June 20, 5 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. 

Ithaca College, A&E Center, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca 

Athletes will visit Performance Stations to learn about how fitness and nutrition contribute to improved sport performance. Stations staffed by local sponsors and healthcare volunteers include focuses on physical activity/stretching, nutrition, hydration, and goal setting/positive mindset. 

State Summer Games Opening Ceremonies 

Friday, June 20, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.  

Ithaca College, A&E Center, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca 

Special Olympics New York’s signature kick-off will include the parade of athletes, remarks by President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman, local officials and athlete representatives as well as the traditional Law Enforcement Torch Run and lighting of the cauldron. 

SATURDAY, JUNE 21 

State Summer Games Sports Competitions 

Saturday, June 21, approximately 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

• Track & Field, Ithaca High School, 1401 N. Cayuga St., Ithaca
• Basketball, Cornell University (Barton Hall, Gyms 1&2), 117 Statler Drive, Ithaca
• Basketball Skills, Boynton (Ithaca) Middle School-Gym, 1601 N Cayuga St, Ithaca
• Bowling, Midway Lanes, 213 N. Jensen Rd., Vestal
• Powerlifting, Ithaca College (A&E Center), 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca
• Swimming, Ithaca College (A&E Center Natatorium), 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca
• Tennis, Cornell University (Reis Tennis Center), 230 Pine Tree Rd., Ithaca
• Volleyball, Cornell University (Newman Arena at Bartels Hall), 554 Campus Rd, Ithaca 

Healthy Athletes Screenings 

Saturday, June 21, 5:45 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 

Ithaca College, A&E Center, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca 

Athletes participating in the Games will receive free health screenings from volunteer medical professionals and students. Health disciplines represented will be Healthy Hearing (Audiology), Health Promotion (General Health/Nutrition), FUNFitness (Physical Therapy), Opening Eyes (Vision), Special Smiles (Dentistry) and Strong Minds (Emotional/Behavioral Health). 

Closing Ceremonies & Victory Dance 

Saturday, June 21, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.   

Ithaca College, A&E Center, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca 

Athletes, coaches and volunteers come together one final time to celebrate the achievements, show off their medals and participate in a traditional Victory Dance with music by DJ Double A before extinguishing the Flame of Hope to mark the official closing of the Games. 

State Summer Games is proudly sponsored by the following: Chobani, Mother Cabrini, Cayuga Health, Elks Major Projects, Gallagher, NYAble, NYSID, Chemung Canal Trust Company, Challenge Solutions, Broome County, Tompkins County, Guthrie, Healthy Athletes, Wegmans, NYCM Insurance, FNYIP, NY Islanders, TSB Foundation, and BorgWarner.

Volunteer or make a donation to support the Games HERE. 

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Winner to be Honored June 20 at State Summer Games Opening Ceremonies

Albany, NY – Special Olympics New York is pleased to announce nine finalists for the 2025 Athlete of the Year Award. The winner of this prestigious honor will be celebrated at State Summer Games in Ithaca, during Opening Ceremonies Friday, June 20, at Ithaca College.

“These nine athletes are some of the most dedicated, inspiring, and hardworking people in our movement today,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We are so proud of them all, and we look forward to honoring them—and announcing the winner—in Ithaca.”

To qualify for this award, nominees must fulfill several criteria, including at least five years of training and competition experience with Special Olympics NY as well as participation in at least three sports and at least two competitions throughout the year. The winner will be anonymously selected by their peed.

The nominee are:

Liza Ambrosini, Capital District Region: As a fierce competitor in skiing and tennis, Liza has competed at every level, from local competitions to the 2025 World Games in Turin, Italy. No matter where she is or what sport she’s playing, Liza leads with sportsmanship and heart, often cheering loudest for her opponents. Outside of competition, Liza spearheads fundraising campaigns, speaks at public events, and volunteers at competitions.

Diane Budnar, Central Region: With more than 15 years of competition, fundraising, and leadership experience in the Central Region, Diane is a mainstay of her local community. When she’s not busy training and competing in bowling, bocce, snowshoe, golf, and volleyball, she’s hard at work defending her title as top fundraiser for her local Polar Plunge. Diane also serves on both the Central Region and Statewide Athlete Leadership Councils.

Thomas Gaun, Genesee Region: For those who know him best, Tommy is the epitome of a committed athlete. Whether he’s assisting coaches, event directors, or his fellow athletes, he’s always available to lend a helping hand. He has also been inducted into the Myderse Sports Hall of Fame with a Lifetime Achievement Award thanks to his three decades of competition with Special Olympics NY.

Morgan Trautmann, Hudson Valley Region: Although Morgan is this year’s youngest nominee, she’s already achieved enough success to last a lifetime. As a competitor in track & field, bowling, and basketball for more than 10 years, she gives her all to her fellow athletes both on and off the field, whether tabling at fundraisers or advocating with her regional Athlete Leadership Council. In the words of those who nominated her, Morgan is, “A wonderful human being, a great teammate, and a talented athlete.”

Matthew Schuster, Long Island Region: As an athlete, fundraiser, leader, and volunteer for 34 years, Matt has made an incredible impact. In addition to medaling consistently in his favorite sports of swimming, floorball, softball, golf, and basketball, Matt is a role model other athletes aspire to emulate. In the words of local staff, “Matthew isn’t just one of our athletes—he’s the heart of Special Olympics New York on Long Island.”

Conrad Chiang, New York City Region: Five sports, 20 years, and one amazing athlete. Conrad is always the first to sign up for any opportunity, whether it’s sports, fitness, or fundraising. That’s on top of his day job, where he works five days each week at the DMV. Despite this busy schedule, Conrad always finds the time to message friends and fellow athletes for holidays and special occasions.

Tara Sayward, North Country Region: Tara has participated in Special Olympics NY for more than half of her life. During that time, she’s competed in skiing, track & field, and swimming, where she always practices kindness and sportsmanship. She’s even been known to share her equipment with those who forget their own. When Tara isn’t competing, she’s advocating for Special Olympics NY throughout her local community.

Brandy Bush, Southern Tier Region: No matter the time or distance, Brandy is willing to help with anything needed. She attends every fundraiser in her region, on top of her already busy schedule of pursuing a college degree and competing in softball, tennis, floorball, golf, and Unified basketball. According to her nomination, “Brandy is an excellent teammate, leader, and inspiration to her peers.”

Julia Harris, Western Region: Julia is a testament to everything Special Olympics NY is about. She has trained and competed in both bocce and swimming for 14 years, earning the respect of her fellow athletes who nominated her to represent them on the Statewide Athlete Leadership Council. Outside of Special Olympics, Julia founded her own public speaking company, where she’s delivered inspirational speeches to more than 15,000 people, including Special Olympics NY’s own staff.

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1,200 Athletes & Coaches from Across NYS to Compete in Seven Sports

Ithaca, NY – The largest statewide Special Olympics New York statewide competition of the year will return to Ithaca June 20 & 21, for the fourth consecutive year. More than 1,200 athletes and coaches from throughout the state will be in the area for State Summer Games competition in seven sports: Basketball, Bowling, Powerlifting, Swimming, Track & Field, Tennis, and Volleyball.

Local leaders and athletes hosted a media event at Ithaca College today to announce the details of the Games and to recruit 450 volunteers from the Tompkins and Broome County communities.

No sports experience is necessary to volunteer. There is a range of jobs for individuals and groups, including set up, parking assistance, meal distribution, athlete escorts, photographers, timers, scorekeepers and more.

VOLUNTEER HERE!

Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman said, “We are delighted to be back in Ithaca once again for our State Summer Games. This community has gone all out for our athletes each of the past three years, and we look forward to seeing all our old friends and making new ones next month.”

Ithaca College President La Jerne Terry Cornish said, “We are so pleased to once again have the opportunity to host the Special Olympics Summer Games on the Ithaca College campus. The joy on the athletes’ faces as they compete—win or lose—is a sight to behold. I guarantee to anyone who volunteers for this incredible event that you will get at least as much out of it as you put in.”

On Friday, June 20, athletes and coaches will travel to Ithaca from throughout the state, coming together for a signature Opening Ceremonies at Ithaca College, beginning at 7 p.m.. Sports competitions will take place all day Saturday, June 21, at the following locations: Ithaca College (Swimming, Powerlifting); Ithaca High School (Track & Field); Midway Lanes (Bowling); Boynton Middle School (Basketball Skills); and Cornell University (Basketball, Tennis, Volleyball), followed by Closing Ceremonies at Ithaca College.

State Summer Games is currently sponsored by the following: Chobani, Mother Cabrini, Cayuga Health, Elks Major Projects, Gallagher, NYAble, NYSID, Chemung Canal Trust Company, Challenge Solutions, Broome County, Tompkins County, Guthrie, NYCM Insurance, and Wegmans.

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1,200 Athletes & Coaches To Compete in Largest State Competition of 2024

Ithaca, NY – More than 1,200 Special Olympics New York athletes and coaches from throughout New York will be in Broome and Tompkins Counties for State Summer Games, Friday, June 14, and Saturday, June 15.

“This is the weekend our athletes from all across the state have been training for. State Summer Games competition will be fierce as athletes go for the gold in 8 sports,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “Excitement is at all-time high as we look forward to celebrating inclusion with the Ithaca community and the thousands of volunteers who have supported our athletes over the last three years.”

Venues hosting the Games are: Ithaca College (Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Swimming, Gymnastics, Powerlifting, Volleyball); Ithaca High School (Track & Field); Midway Lanes (Bowling); and Cornell University (Basketball, Tennis).

The 2024 State Summer Games in Ithaca and 2024 State Fall Games in Glens Falls will be used as qualifying rounds for athletes hoping to compete at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

All State Summer Games events are OPEN PRESS and free to attend. The public schedule is as follows:

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

Young Athletes Festival

Friday, June 14, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Ithaca College, Outdoor Quad, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca

Local Pre-K and elementary school students with and without disabilities will experience Special Olympics New York’s signature Young Athletes Program, with assistance from high school student volunteers who participate in Unified Sports Inclusive Youth Leadership programming throughout the school year.

Fitness Performance Stations

Friday, June 14, 5 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.

Ithaca College, A&E Center, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca

Athletes will visit Performance Stations to learn about how fitness and nutrition contribute to improved sport performance. Stations staffed by local sponsors and healthcare volunteers include focuses on physical activity/stretching, nutrition, hydration, and goal setting/positive mindset.

State Summer Games Opening Ceremonies

Friday, June 14, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Ithaca College, A&E Center, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca

Special Olympics New York’s signature kick-off will include the parade of athletes, remarks by President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman, local officials and athlete representatives as well as the traditional Law Enforcement Torch Run and lighting of the cauldron.

SATURDAY, JUNE 15

State Summer Games Sports Competitions

Saturday, June 15, approximately 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

• Track & Field, Ithaca High School, 1401 N. Cayuga St., Ithaca
• Basketball, Cornell University (Barton Hall, Gyms 1&2), 117 Statler Drive, Ithaca
• Bowling, Midway Lanes, 213 N. Jensen Rd., Vestal
• Gymnastics, Ithaca College (Hill Center), 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca
• Powerlifting, Ithaca College (Fitness Center), 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca (LIVESTREAM)
• Swimming, Ithaca College (A&E Center Natatorium), 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca
• Tennis, Cornell University (Reis Tennis Center), 230 Pine Tree Rd., Ithaca
• Volleyball, Ithaca College (Hill Center), 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca

Healthy Athletes Screenings

Saturday, June 15, 5:45 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Ithaca College, A&E Center, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca

Athletes participating in the Games will receive free health screenings from volunteer medical professionals and students. Health disciplines represented will be Healthy Hearing (Audiology), Health Promotion (General Health/Nutrition), FUNFitness (Physical Therapy), Opening Eyes (Vision), Special Smiles (Dentistry) and Strong Minds (Emotional/Behavioral Health).

Closing Ceremonies & Victory Dance

Saturday, June 15, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 

Ithaca College, A&E Center, 953 Danbury Rd., Ithaca

Athletes, coaches and volunteers come together one final time to celebrate the achievements, show off their medals and participate in a traditional Victory Dance with music by DJ Double A before extinguishing the Flame of Hope to mark the official closing of the Games.

State Summer Games is sponsored by: Tompkins County (lead sponsor), Bonide, BorgWarner, Broome County, Cayuga Health System, Challenge Solutions, Chemung Canal Trust Company, Chobani, Coughlin & Gerhart, NYS Department of Civil Service, Elks Lodge, Gallagher, Guthrie, New York Islanders, NYAble, NYCM Insurance, and New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID). Volunteer or make a donation to support the Games HERE.

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