Special Olympics New York Unified Section 2 Basketball Championships to Take Place at MVP Arena May 27 – 30

Albany, NY — MVP Arena is thrilled to announce that the Special Olympics New York Unified Basketball Championships for Section 2 will be held at the arena from May 27 to May 30, 2025, bringing together athletes of all abilities for an inspiring and competitive event. This remarkable celebration of inclusivity and teamwork is made possible through the generous support of the Innovation Partnership between Albany County and MVP Health Care.

Special Olympics Unified Sports® unites individuals with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team, promoting friendship, understanding, and sportsmanship. They are the keystone of Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools® programming, which helps schools create an inclusive and positive school climate. The championships will showcase the dedication and talent of the athletes, while emphasizing the spirit of inclusion that makes Unified Sports so special.

“We are honored to host the Unified Basketball Championships at MVP Arena,” said Bob Belber, MVP Arena General Manager. “This event exemplifies the power of sports to bring people together and celebrate the abilities of all athletes. We can’t wait to welcome the competitors, their families, and fans to our venue.”

“Special Olympics New York is honored to celebrate the achievements of our Section 2 athletes, unified partners and school districts at such an exclusive venue,” said Stacey Hengsterman, Special Olympics New York President & CEO. “While student leadership is the driving force of our movement, true inclusion is achieved when communities like Albany and schools like those participating in this event make time to embrace and celebrate it together. We are deeply grateful to MVP Health Care, Albany County and the Innovation Partnership for this opportunity.”

The Innovation Partnership played a crucial role in making this event a reality, furthering its mission to support programs that foster community engagement and inclusivity.

“The Special Olympics Unified Sports® program embodies the true spirit of unity and sportsmanship. It highlights the talents of athletes with and without intellectual disabilities side by side in an inclusive environment. Hosting the Unified Basketball Championships here in Albany County is an honor, and I know residents will show their full support for these incredible athletes. I am proud our Innovation Partnership is able to show its support,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy.

“We are so proud to support the Unified Basketball Championships at MVP Arena,” said Augusta Martin, MVP Health Care’s Chief Market Strategy and Product Officer. “This event exemplifies inclusivity and teamwork, bringing together athletes of all abilities to celebrate their talents. At MVP Health Care, we are dedicated to promoting health and well-being in our community. Supporting initiatives like this aligns with our mission to foster engagement, understanding, and friendship. We look forward to witnessing the dedication and sportsmanship of these athletes.”

More than 30 schools, 375 athletes with intellectual disabilities and 340 unified partners without disabilities are competing in Special Olympics Unified Basketball in Section 2 this season. Leading up to the Championships, divisions will be created, based on team performance throughout the season, to ensure an equal ability for each team to win within each bracket. Each division will have a semifinal round at two host schools, followed by a championship and a third-place game at MVP Arena.

The public is encouraged to attend this free event and cheer on the athletes as they compete for championship medals.

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