Category: Winter Games

Funds to Support Athletes Heading to World Games in 2025

Watertown, NY – Special Olympics New York is honored to have Shaun Cuddeback, lieutenant with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, raising funds for its 2025 World Games Delegation.

Lt. Cuddeback will be one of several Law Enforcement Torch Runners carrying the Flame of Hope at Italy’s World Games, March 8 – 16, 2025. In addition, Special Olympics NY will be sending 21 other athletes, partners, and coaches to the games, along with fellow Torch Runner and athlete Jacob Babcock.

“We are so fortunate to have champions like Shaun contributing to our movement,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President and CEO of Special Olympics NY. “World Games is a dream come true for our athletes, and it would not be possible without Shaun and those who will donate to his campaign.”

“[These athletes] put their heart and soul into it,” said Lt. Cuddeback. “If you can spare a couple of dollars to send them to some competitions, that’s what this is all about.”

For every athlete and Unified partner making the trip to Italy, the cost to Special Olympics New York is approximately $10,000.

Lt. Cuddeback will begin his seven marathons Monday, August 26 and conclude with the Sackets Harbor Marathon on Sunday, September 1. Those interested in supporting him in his fundraising efforts may do so at this link.

Lt. Cuddeback’s marathons will begin each day at 6am, rain or shine, at the following locations:

• Monday, August 26: Carthage High School
• Tuesday, August 27: South Jefferson’s Wilson Building
• Wednesday, August 28: Calcium Nature Trail (start at the Rt 11/Patterson Rd trailhead)
• Thursday, August 29: General Brown High School
• Friday, August 30: Indian River High School
• Saturday, August 31: Ft. Drum’s McGrath Gymnasium
• Sunday, September 1: Madison Barracks Polo Field

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A Dream Come True for 23 Athletes, Partners, & Coaches from New York

Albany, NY – Special Olympics New York today announced that 23 athletes, partners, and coaches from New York have been selected as members of Special Olympics USA, a 160-member delegation that will participate in Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, March 8 – 15, 2025.

“This is a dream come true for our athletes,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We have some of the best and bravest competitors in the country, so it will come as no surprise that so many of our athletes, partners, and coaches have been selected to represent the United States on the world stage. We know they are going to make us all proud. Let’s go, Special Olympics USA!.”

Representing New York as part of Special Olympics USA are the following:

• Alpine Skiiers Liza Ambrosini of Queensbury, and Paige Ditzel of Fairport
• Figure Skaters Cori Piels of Rochester, Matthew Gabello of Rochester, and Ryan Chin of Wappingers Falls
• The Northeast Knights Unified Floorball Team, from Hudson Valley Region
• Law Enforcement Torch Runners, athlete Jacob Babcock of Rochester, and LT. Shaun Cuddeback of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Dept.
• Coaches Martha Pachuta, Megan Gorski, Nicole Fess, Joe Bellini, Nancy Bellini, Ellen Pikula, and Chris Johnson, and Sport Manager Stacy Eder

Learn more about New York’s representatives here.

As with all Special Olympics New York opportunities, World Games travel and competition will be provided at no cost to those participating. To learn more about how you can support New York’s athletes or get involved in fundraising, please visit: specialolympicsNY.org/2025-world-games/.

Special Olympics USA is comprised of 101 athletes and Unified partners, 32 coaches, and 27 support staff. Athletes from throughout the country and the world will compete in eight sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, DanceSport, Figure Skating, Floorball, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing, and Speedskating.

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About Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025

Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 will take place from March 8 -16, 2025, gathering more than 1,500 athletes from 103 countries to compete in eight winter sports and showcase the determination of people with intellectual disabilities and the power of inclusion through sport. World Winter Games events will be held in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy.

ESPN television networks and digital platforms will bring extensive coverage to sports fans and supporters of the Special Olympics movement around the world during World Games Turin 2025. As the official global broadcast partner of Special Olympics, ESPN will deliver live and recorded highlights on its family of TV channels, the ESPN+ streaming service, ESPN3, ESPN.com, and the ESPN App. To learn more about the Special Olympics USA delegation, visit www.specialolympicsusa.org.

About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is one of the largest state chapters in the country, serving more than 45,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 300 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com and a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

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Ryan is a graduate of Cazenovia High School, where he played Unified Sports. He is also an Athlete Leadership Council Member and 3-season Special Olympics athlete of over 26 years.

Skiing is Ryan’s favorite sport. He competes in slalom and giant slalom. He has earned many medals over his career, including State Games and USA Games honors.

“Special Olympics gives me the opportunity to compete not only skiing, but in the fall – I train and compete in golf, and in the summer – I train and compete in powerlifting. Special Olympics gives me all of these opportunities at no cost to me or my family. It is an incredible organization that has taught me how to be a champion, and helped communities like yours all across the state to be more inclusive,” said Ryan.

 

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Hour-Long Special Available On Demand at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 25

Syracuse, NY – Special Olympics New York and WCNY are proud to present an hour-long special on PBS ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics. The special, featuring Special Olympics New York champions, coaches, families, and volunteers from throughout the state, will be available to watch on demand, beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 25.

A livestream will be available to viewers in the Central New York Region at pbs.org/livestream/ and to all viewers at wcny.org/adaptivesports/.

In February, approximately 600 athletes and coaches from across New York participated in the 2024 Special Olympics New York State Winter Games in Syracuse. The athletes competed in four sports – floorball, alpine skiing, figure skating, and snowshoeing – and celebrated inclusion with the Syracuse community.

“Special Olympics athletes showcase competition in its purest form: The courage to confront challenges, the will to defy expectations, the character to display sportsmanship, and the drive to reach new levels of excellence,” said WCNY President & CEO Mitch Gelman. “These events brought people together and provided athletes with the opportunity to compete in authentic sports, showcasing their talents and strengths. WCNY is excited to partner with Special Olympics New York and bring viewers this in-depth look at the Games.”

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to be a champion and go for the gold; and athletes with disabilities are some of the bravest champions you will ever meet,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We are thrilled and deeply grateful to be working with WCNY and WNED to shine a light on our incredible athletes as well as those who participate in adaptive sports throughout New York year-round.”

About WCNY Adaptive Sports

WCNY World of Adaptive Sports specials feature outstanding athletes and even greater stories. Whether playing Challenger Baseball, sled hockey, adaptive basketball, wheelchair football, or competing in the Special Olympics, these athletes embody the best of sport. Working with its partners at sister station WNED in Buffalo, WCNY is proud to bring these events to its TV and streaming audiences. Watch as adaptive sports bring our communities together, shatter stigmas, and open our eyes to true possibilities.

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600 Athletes and Coaches from Throughout NYS to Compete

Syracuse, NY – The 2024 Special Olympics New York State Winter Games will take place in Syracuse next weekend. Approximately 600 athletes and coaches from throughout the state will participate in Opening Ceremonies Friday night and compete in four sports Saturday.

Photos from the 2023 Games in Syracuse are available for advanced media coverage at this link.

All 2024 State Winter Games events listed below are OPEN PRESS.

State Winter Games Opening Ceremonies

Friday, Feb. 23, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Syracuse Oncenter (800 South State St, Syracuse, NY 13202)

Special Olympics New York’s signature kick-off will include the parade of athletes, remarks by President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman and athlete representatives as well as the traditional Law Enforcement Torch Run and lighting of the cauldron. State Senator John Mannion and his wife, Jennifer, will emcee the ceremonies.

State Winter Games Sports Competition

Saturday, Feb. 24, from approximately 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Floorball at the Syracuse Oncenter (800 South State St., Syracuse, NY 13202)
• Alpine Skiing at Greek Peak (2000 NY-392, Cortland, NY 13045)
• Figure Skating at the Syracuse War Memorial (515 Montgomery St., Syracuse, NY 13202)
• Snowshoe at Green Lakes State Park (7900 Green Lakes Rd, Fayetteville, NY 13066)

Closing Ceremonies & Healthy Athletes

Saturday, Feb. 24, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Syracuse Oncenter (800 South State St, Syracuse, NY 13202)

Athletes will unite after the competition ends for Closing Ceremonies, including a victory dance and Healthy Athletes, where health volunteers will facilitate stations in Audiology, Health Promotion, Vision, and Physical Therapy.

Thank you, Sponsors!

Special Olympics New York would like to thank Onondaga County for serving as the Presenting Sponsor of Winter Games, as well as the following sponsors: NYSID, Gallagher, National Grid, Taste NY, NY Able, Midstate Mutual Insurance Company, NuCor, C&S Companies, Splash Car Wash, New Era Cap Foundation, Chick-fil-a, Jersey Mike’s, and the NY Islanders.

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Nine Coaches Nominated from Throughout New York State

Albany, NY – Special Olympics New York is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2024 Coach of the Year Award. The winner will be announced at Special Olympics New York’s State Winter Games in Syracuse at Opening Ceremonies on Friday, February 23.

“Special Olympics New York coaches are the lifeblood of our organization,” said President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “Our coaches—who are all volunteers—are the true heroes of Special Olympics. They inspire athletes to be the best version of themselves and empower them to find the champion within. Congratulations to all this year’s deserving nominees.”

Each of the nine finalists were nominated by staff from their regional offices and selected by a committee of voters. The nominees are as follows:

Michael Churchill, Capital Region: Named 2023 Coach of the Year in his home region, Michael Churchill has been an outstanding partner to our organization for almost 20 years. In addition to coaching, he’s also a sport director and clinician in basketball. When asked if Michael helps at events beyond his coaching duties, local staff replied, “Too many to count!”

Tom Adams, Genesee Region: When it comes to recruitment, leadership, and motivation, few do it better than Tom Adams. Despite leading one of the largest training clubs in his region, Tom is always willing to welcome new athletes and coaches to his teams. Furthermore, he organizes teambuilding activities outside competition, such as pool parties, picnics, and fantasy football leagues.

Amber Mott, Central Region: Coach, sport director, clinician, volunteer coordinator, fundraiser—you name it, Amber Mott has done it. Despite coaching three sports for a training club that’s always expanding, Amber still finds time to volunteer and fundraise. This is her second consecutive nomination.

Nancy Bellini, Hudson Valley Region: Nancy Bellini has coached an astonishing 10 sports in her region, taking her athletes all the way to the world stage in Japan and China. Furthermore, Nancy’s commitment extends into her family, since her husband and daughter are also Special Olympics NY coaches. Local staff said Nancy and her family “live Special Olympics every single waking hour.” This marks her second consecutive nomination.

Ellen Schuster, Long Island Region: With more than 20 years of experience coaching swimming, softball, golf, and floor hockey, Ellen is a mainstay of Special Olympics NY in Long Island, attending almost all local events in the region, even when she’s not coaching at them. Additionally, she serves as sport director, head of delegation, volunteer, and Athlete Leadership coordinator. This is her third consecutive nomination, which is the most among our nominees.

Ed Sullivan, North Country Region: Described as “a constant pillar for our athletes,” Ed Sullivan is one of the North Country’s most dedicated coaches. With almost 20 years of experience coaching track & field, bowling, cross country skiing, snowshoe, bocce, and swimming, Ed easily connects with athletes, volunteers, and fellow coaches. In the words of our staff, “Ed gets along with everyone and makes it so fun!”

Marilyn Best, New York City Region: The New York City Region simply wouldn’t be the same without Marilyn Best. Coaching six sports for almost 20 years, Marilyn has led her teams from the local level all the way up to 2022’s USA Games in Orlando. Outside coaching, she also volunteers, fundraises, and, in the words of our staff, “consistently puts the needs of our athletes above her own.” This is Marilyn’s second consecutive nomination.

Karli Buday, Southern Tier Region: “Karli Buday is a true ambassador for Special Olympics New York.” That’s how local staff described her, and we couldn’t agree more. As the founder of not one, but three new training clubs, she’s done an amazing job building communities in her region. But that’s not all—Karli also serves the Southern Tier as a fundraiser, volunteer, area coordinator, and more. This is her second consecutive nomination.

Kevin Anderson, Western Region: As a golf, swimming, and bocce coach at the local, regional, and national level for more than 10 years, Kevin Anderson is a mainstay in the Western Region. Outside of coaching, Kevin also serves as a clinician, event director, and member of the Statewide Coaches Committee. This is his second consecutive nomination.

Members of the media interested in interviewing our nominees can contact Casey Vattimo at cvattimo@nyso.org for more information.

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Local Leaders & Athletes Announce Return of the Games

SYRACUSE, NY – More than 500 Special Olympics New York athletes and coaches from throughout the state will be in Syracuse February 23 & 24 for the 2024 State Winter Games. Area venues will host competition in four sports: Alpine Skiing, Figure Skating, Snowshoe and, for the first time at the state level – Floorball.

Special Olympics New York is looking to fill 300 volunteer jobs to support the event. Syracuse athletes teamed up with local leaders in a call for volunteers at a press conference today at the Oncenter, where athletes and guests also challenged each other in an informal Floorball skills competition.

Volunteers are asked to REGISTER HERE. Those interested in volunteering as a group can send an email to volunteers@nyso.org.

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

“Our athletes will be ready to go for the gold in Syracuse, and they’re counting on the community to be ready as well,” said President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “Please join us for a celebration of inclusion like no other. Volunteering with Special Olympics New York is an experience that never disappoints.”

“My teammates and I can’t wait for State Winter Games. We have been training in Floorball for the first time all winter. We will be ready to go for the gold!” said Athlete Kayla McKeon, of Syracuse. “Please come out and volunteer to support our team and all of the athletes participating in State Winter Games.”

Senator John W. Mannion said, “Jen and I are thrilled to welcome Special Olympics athletes and coaches from across the state back to Syracuse for the 2024 Winter Games this February 23rd-24th. Please join us in supporting these incredible games and athletes – there’s lots of ways to get involved!”

Onondaga County Executive J. Ryan McMahon, II, said, “Onondaga County is proud to partner, once again, with our friends at Special Olympics New York. Hundreds of the best athletes, along with their friends and family, will compete in what will surely be the best Winter Games yet! I encourage our community to come out and support these amazing athletes and I wish all of them the best of luck.”

Area venues hosting the State Winter Games are: The Oncenter (Floorball, Opening and Closing Ceremonies), Greek Peak Ski Resort (Alpine Skiing), Thornden Park (Snowshoe) and Upstate Medical Arena at Oncenter War Memorial (Figure Skating).

Sponsoring the 2024 State Winter Games are: Onondaga County, NYSID, Gallagher, National Grid, NY Able, Taste NY, Midstate Mutual Insurance Company and New Era Cap Foundation.

All Special Olympics New York programs, including State Winter Games, are provided at no cost to the athletes or their families. The Games are also free for spectators to attend. To support the Games either by volunteering or making a donation to help offset the costs of the Games, visit: specialolympics-ny.org/community/2024-winter-games/.

Video from last year’s Winter Games is available HERE for broadcast use.

Special Olympics New York transitioned its Floor Hockey sport to Floorball this season. Among the benefits of Floorball is greater advancement opportunities for athletes, who gain eligibility for USA and World Games. A team from the Hudson Valley Region was recently nominated to represent Team USA in the 2025 Special Olympics World Games that will take place in Italy.

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Bidding Process Now Open for State Summer & Winter Games 2025-27

Albany, NY – Special Olympics New York today announced that it is accepting bids from communities interested in hosting its signature State Summer Games and State Winter Games annually from 2025 to 2027.

Special Olympics New York State Games follow each of the statewide organization’s three sports seasons: Winter (February) Summer (June) and Fall (October). The Games are utilized by Special Olympics chapters throughout the country as a spectacular culminating event to mark the achievement of athletes with intellectual disabilities and to bring communities together in a celebration of inclusion.

A State Games weekend typically attracts approximately 1,000 athletes and coaches from throughout the state. Host communities must have available venues for Opening Ceremonies and competition in up to 8 sports. The community will also work with Special Olympics New York to ensure housing, meals, volunteers, and sponsorship to support the event.

“State Games are a chance to witness first-hand the joy, courage and determination of our athletes,” said Special Olympics New York Board of Directors Chair Ceylane Meyers-Ruff. “These events are a privilege to have in your community; something you will be proud of for years to come. I encourage county, chamber, university, and tourism leaders throughout the state to strongly consider this opportunity.”

“Hosting State Games is an opportunity to make a positive impact in your community unlike any other,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “State Games is where our entire movement comes together for one incredible weekend: the highest level of sports competition, social activities, and life-changing health screenings for athletes as well as an epic celebration of inclusion with host communities and volunteers.”

“Hosting a state level event for Special Olympics New York in Dutchess County was a highlight in my career,” said Mary Kay Verba, former president & CEO of Dutchess County Tourism. “The organization and staff are the best. Being able to highlight the county and bring 1,800 athletes and coaches to Dutchess was awesome. One of the best moments was seeing more than 3,000 volunteers from the community come out to help and cheer on the athletes. Do NOT miss the chance for your community to host this great event.”

“State Games is what athletes and coaches look forward to all year,” said Special Olympics New York Athlete Leadership Council Chair Jessica Spitz. “On behalf of the thousands of athletes who go for the gold each year at State Games, thank you to the communities, sponsors, and volunteers who make our dreams come true.”

Community leaders are invited to express interest in hosting the Games by submitting an inquiry online at specialolympicsNY.org or sending an email to Stacy Eder, Statewide Director of Community Engagement and Events, at seder@nyso.org.

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Events Kick Off Thursday with “A Night of Champions”

500 Athletes & Coaches to Compete in Six Sports Saturday

Syracuse, NY – It’s Games Week in Syracuse. Nearly 500 Special Olympics New York athletes and coaches —and their biggest fans—from throughout the state will be in Syracuse this weekend for the 2023 State Winter Games. Area venues will host competitions in six sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowboarding, and Snowshoeing.

“It’s great to be back in Syracuse, where competitive sports are a way of life and the community so clearly values the contributions of people with all abilities,” said President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman.

“My teammates and I can’t wait for State Winter Games,” said athlete James Jewett, 38, of Chittenango, who will be competing in Snowshoeing. “The competition is always fierce at this level, and we always look forward to seeing our fellow athletes from throughout the state. Thank you, Syracuse!”

Thursday, Feb. 23

Games Week events will kick off Thursday, Feb. 23 with “A Night of Champions” at the Oncenter to honor local Game Changers and raise funds to support the Games. Discounted tickets are on sale at www.Night-of-Champions.org. Honorees include Susan Crossett, CEO of CPS Recruitment, Inc., Kenneth Greenleaf, President of CSEA Region 5, and J. Ryan McMahon, II, Onondaga County Executive. Admission includes unified games, carving stations, and complimentary cocktails.

Friday, Feb. 24

The celebration of inclusion continues Friday night with a signature Special Olympics New York Opening Ceremonies, beginning at 7 p.m., at the Oncenter. New York State Senator John Mannion and his wife, Jennifer Mannion, will emcee the event, welcoming athletes and coaches from throughout the state to Syracuse before Hengsterman and members of local law enforcement declare the Games open.

Saturday, Feb. 25

Sports competitions and medal ceremonies will be held throughout the day Saturday as follows:

• Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm at Greek Peak Ski Resort (2000 NY-392, Cortland, NY 13045)
• Snowshoeing: 9:45 am – 3:30 pm at Green Lakes State Park Beach (7900 Green Lakes Rd., Fayetteville, NY 13066)
• Floor Hockey: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm at Syracuse Oncenter (800 South State St., Syracuse, NY 13202)
• Figure Skating: 10:00 am – 1:30 pm at Syracuse War Memorial (515 Montgomery St, Syracuse, NY 13202)
• Closing Ceremonies & Victory Dance: 7 pm – 8:30 pm at Syracuse Oncenter (800 South State St., Syracuse, NY 13202)

Volunteers are still needed to support the Games. Volunteers are asked to REGISTER HERE. Those interested in volunteering as a group can send an email to volunteers@nyso.org.

All Special Olympics New York programs, including State Winter Games, are provided at no cost to the athletes or their families. The Games are also free for spectators to attend. To support the Games either by volunteering or making a donation to help offset the costs of the Games, visit this webpage.

Video from last year’s State Winter Games in Syracuse is available HERE for broadcast use.

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Volunteers Needed to Support the Games

Syracuse, NY – Nearly 500 Special Olympics New York athletes and coaches from throughout the state will be in Syracuse February 24 & 25 for the 2023 State Winter Games. Area venues will host competition in 6 sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowboarding and Snowshoe.

Local officials, Special Olympics New York leaders and athletes are seeking 300 volunteers to support the event. They teamed up in a call for volunteers at a press conference today at the Upstate Medical Arena at Oncenter War Memorial, where some of the local figure skaters were practicing for the Games.

Video from last year’s Winter Games is available HERE for broadcast use.

Volunteers are asked to REGISTER HERE. Those interested in volunteering as a group can send an email to volunteers@nyso.org.

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

“My teammates and I can’t wait for State Winter Games,” said Athlete James Jewett, 38, of Chittenango, who will be competing in Snowshoe. “The competition is always fierce at this level, and we always look forward to seeing our fellow athletes from throughout the state. Please come and volunteer. Thank you, Syracuse!”

“It’s great to be back in Syracuse, where competitive sports are a way of life and the community so clearly values the contributions of people with all abilities,” said President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “Join us for State Winter Games and you’ll see why Special Olympics New York has a near 100 percent return rate of volunteers. Our athletes, coaches and fans have a magical way of bringing communities together.”

“I am thrilled that the Special Olympics New York State Winter Games will be back in Syracuse February 24^th and 25^th,” said Senator John W. Mannion. “We are a community that believes in excellence and inclusion, and we are ready to step up and make these games the best ever. I urge all Central New Yorkers to join me in supporting these games by volunteering and coming out to support these incredible athletes.”

“Onondaga County is proud to partner, once again, with our friends at Special Olympics New York. Nearly 500 of the best athletes, along with their friends and family, will compete in what will surely be the best Winter Games yet!” said Onondaga County Executive J. Ryan McMahon, II.  “I encourage our community to come out and support these amazing athletes and I wish all of them the best of luck.”

“I’m thrilled and honored that our community-based foundation, The Maguire Foundation, will be a proud sponsor of the 2023 Special Olympics New York Winter Games—and its mission toward inclusion, unity, acceptance, empowerment, dignity, pride … and fun!” said Frank Vanderpool, Chief Operations Officer of the Maguire Automotive Group and Committee Member of the Maguire Foundation. “We cannot wait for this year’s competition and want to wish all the athletes best of luck!”

All Special Olympics New York programs, including State Winter Games, are provided at no cost to the athletes or their families. The Games are also free for spectators to attend.

To support the Games either by volunteering or making a donation to help offset the costs of the Games, visit: https://www.specialolympicsNY.org/community/2023-winter-games/.

On Thursday, Feb. 23, Special Olympics New York will host “A Night of Champions” reception to honor local Game Changers and raise funds to support the Games. Discounted tickets are on sale in coordination with today’s announcement, at www.Night-of-Champions.org.

Area venues hosting the State Winter Games are: The OnCenter (Floor Hockey, Opening and Closing Ceremonies), Highland Forest (Cross Country Skiing), Greek Peak Ski Resort (Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding), Thornden Park (Snowshoe) and Upstate Medical Arena at Oncenter War Memorial (Figure Skating).

This is the second consecutive year that Syracuse will host State Winter Games. It will also return in February  2024. Onondaga County is the presenting sponsor of the Games, and the Maguire Foundation is sponsoring Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

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About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 31,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with about 250 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

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Volunteers Needed for Friday, Feb. 25 & Saturday, Feb. 26

Syracuse, NY – Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman today announced that in addition to hosting the State Winter Games in Syracuse later this month, Onondaga County has emerged as lead sponsor, allocating $15,000 of legislative support to offset the nonprofit’s cost for the Games.

Onondaga County Executive J. Ryan McMahon, II said the county is honored to host Special Olympics New York athletes, coaches and fans, and proud to be able to provide some funding as well.

“We could not be more proud to sponsor the Special Olympics New York State Winter Games and welcome all of the athletes to Onondaga County. I encourage anyone who is able to sign-up to volunteer as well as cheer on these amazing athletes.” McMahon said. “I also encourage the athletes and their families to enjoy all Onondaga County has to offer when they aren’t competing at the Games!”

“We are so grateful to have found champions in County Executive McMahon and his colleagues in the legislature,” said Hengsterman. “This additional support from Onondaga County feels like a great big hug as we prepare to bring our signature State Winter Games back to Syracuse.”

At the 2022 State Winter Games Feb. 25 – 26, approximately 500 Special Olympics New York athletes and coaches from throughout the state will compete in 6 sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowboarding and Snowshoe.

Volunteers are still needed to support the Games. Volunteers must be vaccinated and registered in advance. No sports experience is necessary. To volunteer, Register Here and select “2022 State Winter Games.”

Volunteer jobs include set up, parking assistance, meal distribution, safety assurance, awards, athlete escorts, photography, timers, scorekeepers and other specific venue needs.

To support the Games either by volunteering or making a donation, visit: https://www.specialolympics-ny.org/community/2022-winter-games/.

Area venues hosting the Special Olympics New York Winter Games are: The OnCenter (Floor Hockey, Opening and Closing Ceremonies), Highland Forest (Cross Country Skiing), Greek Peak Ski Resort (Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding), Thornden Park (Snowshoe) and War Memorial (Figure Skating).

 

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About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 51,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with about 250 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

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Local Leaders and Athletes Invite the Community to Get in on the Games Action

Syracuse, NY – Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman, State Senator John W. Mannion, Onondaga County Executive J. Ryan McMahon, II and local Special Olympics athletes today announced that Syracuse will host the 2022 State Winter Games Feb. 25 – 26 at sporting venues throughout the area.

Approximately 500 Special Olympics New York athletes and coaches from throughout New York will compete in 6 sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowboarding and Snowshoe.

At Thursday’s press conference, athletes and local leaders asked the community for 400 volunteers in support of the Games. Volunteers must be vaccinated and registered in advance. No sports experience is necessary. To volunteer, Register Here and select “2022 State Winter Games.”

Volunteer jobs include set up, parking assistance, meal distribution, safety assurance, awards, athlete escorts, photography, timers, scorekeepers and other specific venue needs.

“This is the moment hundreds of Special Olympics New York athletes have been waiting for,” said Hengsterman. “Athletes and coaches from throughout the state have been training hard and counting down the days until the Winter Games kick-off in Syracuse. We are going to need the community’s help to make it spectacular. There are many different volunteer jobs for those willing to participate, including individual opportunities as well as things to do as a family or team. Please join us!”

“Hosting the Winter Games in Syracuse is a moment to celebrate New York’s incredible Special Olympics athletes while showcasing Central New York’s tradition of athletic excellence, inclusion, and service,” said Senator Mannion (SD-50). “I know our partners in the community will step up to the plate to make these Games the best ever. Please connect with Special Olympics New York or my office to learn more about volunteer opportunities and ways you can support our athletes and the games.”

“We are proud to host the Special Olympics New York Winter Games in Onondaga County,” said County Executive McMahon. “Inclusivity is at the heart of who we are as a community and welcoming the visiting athletes is not only a privilege but an honor. The perseverance and courageous spirit of those competing in the Winter Games inspire and bring joy to us all. I strongly encourage everyone to consider volunteering for this exciting weekend of events.”

“I can’t wait for Winter Games. I’ll be bringing my A game and I know my fellow athletes will be too,” said Snowshoer Lindsay Mitchell, 33, of Chittenango. “Thank you to all of the volunteers who come out and cheer us on and make it possible for us to have our Winter Games in Syracuse.”

“Alpine is my favorite sport and Winter Games is always the best competition because athletes have come from all over the state,” said Alpine Skiier Ryan Goldacker, 36, of Cazenovia. “I’m counting down the days. I can’t wait to see you all there!”

To support the Games either by volunteering or making a donation, visit: https://www.specialolympics-ny.org/community/2022-winter-games/.

Area venues hosting Special Olympics New York Winter Games are: The OnCenter (Floor Hockey, Opening and Closing Ceremonies), Highland Forest (Cross Country Skiing), Greek Peak Ski Resort (Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding), Thornden Park (Snowshoe) and War Memorial (Figure Skating).

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About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 51,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with about 250 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.

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