Special Olympics New York Honors Katelyne Maroney with Rising Star Award

Coach, Advocate, and Leader Recognized for Her Outstanding Impact in New York City

New York, NY – Special Olympics New York is proud to recognize Katelyne Maroney of New York City as the recipient of this year’s Rising Star Award, honoring her extraordinary dedication, leadership, and impact as a coach, advocate, and community leader.

Since joining Special Olympics New York as a coach in June of 2022, Katelyne has made a remarkable impression. In just two years, she has become an indispensable part of the community, serving as Head Coach for the Black Mambas Soccer Club and a coach for the Manhattan Wildcats Basketball Team. Her coaching style reflects her deep commitment to athlete development: Encouraging excellence while fostering joy, growth, and teamwork.

What truly sets Katelyne apart is her unwavering advocacy and involvement beyond the playing field. She serves on the Athlete Leadership Council and is a proud participant on the Special Olympics New York Marathon team, consistently going the extra mile—literally and figuratively—for the athletes and the mission. Her dedication extends to volunteering at various program and fundraising events, always stepping in to lend a hand wherever needed.

“When it comes to our athletes, Katelyne goes above and beyond to make a difference, each and every day,” said Special Olympics NY President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “She has already made an incredible impact, and we know her best work is yet to come.”

“Katelyne exemplifies what it means to be a Rising Star,” said NYC Region Associate Director of Program Fatoumata Ouattara, who nominated Katelyne for the award. “Her leadership, energy, and passion for the mission of Special Olympics are contagious. She is not only a role model for athletes, but also for fellow coaches throughout New York City.”

The Rising Star Award highlights coaches that are under the age of 25. These coaches are early in their career and have already made significant contributions to Special Olympics at a local, regional, or national level. This award focuses on coaches that have demonstrated a commitment to the organization while having the potential to make a large impact in the future. One coach from each of the nine regions is nominated for the award, and the winner is selected by the Special Olympics NY Statewide Coaches Committee.

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