SPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW YORK SEEKS RECORD FAN TURNOUT FOR 2019 SUMMER GAMES
Monday, June 4, 2019
President and CEO Renews Call for Volunteers
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — With less than two weeks to go before the largest statewide competition of the year, Special Olympics New York President and CEO Stacey Hengsterman today renewed the call for volunteers at the 2019 Summer Games.
“Volunteers are the reason Special Olympics New York can offer this statewide competition to our athletes at no cost,” said Hengsterman. “They are our organizers, judges, athlete escorts and so much more. Most importantly, we count on volunteers to show up and be our fans. We invite everyone from the community to cheer on our athletes at Summer Games, a fan experience that is truly like no other in sports!”
Nearly 1,700 athletes and coaches from nine regions across New York State will gather in Dutchess County on June 14-15 to compete in eight sports: Swimming, Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field, Bowling, Gymnastics, Powerlifting and Tennis.
There is still a need for volunteers in all areas, but especially track and field, the largest event of the weekend. There is volunteer training onsite so no prior experience is needed. No running or jumping required, you can leave that to the athletes.
Fan involvement is also a key element of each competition.
“Our fans are the best,” said Jude Killar, a Special Olympics New York athlete competing in basketball. “Their cheering and encouragement help me play harder. I always do my best when I know people are rooting for me.”
Fan attendance is not only an incredible experience for the athletes; it’s also an amazing experience for the fans themselves.
“Being a fan at last year’s Summer Games was the highlight of 2018 for me,” said Christopher Eder, a volunteer at last year’s Summer Games in Albany. “I still remember the moment when an athlete hit a buzzer-beater as time expired and the Siena basketball players stormed the court. It was like something out of a movie.”
If you want to help break records at the 2019 Special Olympics New York Summer Games, join us at www.specialolympicsny.org/SummerGames.
###
About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 67,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with nearly 150 schools statewide to offer unified sports. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. Learn more at www.specialolympicsNY.org and #SpecialOlympicsNY.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Robyn Armando, Vice President Marketing & Branding, (518) 930-4890, rarmando@nyso.org
SHARE THIS: