Category: Winter Games
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 24th and 25th,” 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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Having an amazing photographer at Winter Games is great. Having almost 100 of them? Now that’s an amazing gift.
That’s exactly what we got the past three years in Rochester for our Winter Games. Since 2018, we’ve had the honor of welcoming Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) photography students and alumni to our games. The results have been magnificent. They’ve taken outstanding action shots like this…
…Beautiful portraits like this…
…And even inspiring videos like this.
We cannot thank them enough for their work at our Games!
So how did it all start, and what did it look like behind the scenes?
A Three-Year Commitment
The program began when RIT Assistant Photography Professor Josh Meltzer and his team contacted Special Olympics New York locally and asked to volunteer their services. The initial request expanded into a group of students photographing Winter Games and the Rochester Polar Plunge.
Since our State Games usually stay in host cities for three-year periods, Josh and his students agreed to volunteer for the same duration. They came in 2018, 2019, and 2020, each time bringing more students than the year prior.
The Process
Each year, Josh and his students took over an entire room within the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. That might sound like a lot, but not when you consider the amount of equipment they brought. We’re talking cameras and lenses for each student, plus several computers, props, lighting, gear, three massive printers, and a handful of areas to critique and publish imagery. With nearly 100 people in there at any given time, they probably could’ve used more space!
All this commotion gave RIT’s room a collaborative atmosphere. Students shared their work with other students, highlighting achievements and offering tips for further improvement. In addition, Josh and his colleague, Assistant Professor Jennifer Poggi, along with other professors, students, and alumni, analyzed images and offered feedback. It’s this type of teamwork that led in part to such astounding imagery.
Now casual photographers might assume that great pictures are easy to take, especially with an expensive camera. That’s certainly not the case. RIT students needed to position themselves close enough to the action to snap engaging photos, yet not so close as to disrupt competition. Furthermore, sports are extremely challenging to capture since they require high shutter speeds, which mitigate blur. However, these speeds also result in complications with lighting, and those issues are compounded in bright settings, like snow (and remember, this was Winter Games). Put simply, there’s a lot more work that went into these photos than might meet the eye.
Students collected pictures from all five competition sites throughout the greater Rochester area, some of which were several hours away from one another. But that’s not all they photographed. They also documented our thrilling Opening Ceremonies (which featured speeches from Buffalo Bills defensive lineman Harrison Phillips and legendary Special Olympics athlete Loretta Claiborne!), as well as our invigorating Closing Ceremonies.
Speaking of those, Closing Ceremonies featured one of RIT’s coolest initiatives: They printed free poster-size photos for our athletes to take home, so long as the athletes could find themselves in the images! This gave the proceedings a fun, scavenger-hunt atmosphere. Our athletes had a blast reliving some of the best moments of the weekend. Plus, they got to take some keepsakes back home.
As if all that wasn’t enough, RIT even assisted us on social media for the weekend! Check out our Facebook and Instagram profiles to see their fantastic work. And for even more, please visit RIT’s Winter Games website.
The Results
We were thrilled to partner with RIT for two reasons. First, and probably most obvious…we got great photos! These images showed the world the kind of amazing athletes that compete with Special Olympics New York. We hope viewers look at these photos and see something they didn’t expect to see. We hope their perceptions of people with disabilities are forever changed.
Secondly, this opportunity allowed the students to meet our athletes. Though it’s not an inclusive activity along the lines of Unified Sports, this was still an excellent opportunity for people with and without disabilities to come together. We believe that RIT’s students learned more about people with disabilities, and were bettered for having the experience.
Thank you RIT!
On behalf of our athletes, staff, coaches, and volunteers, thank you RIT students and faculty! You helped make 2020’s Winter Games one of the best we’ve ever had.
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Country’s Largest Special Olympics Chapter Celebrates 50 Years of Sports & Inclusion
Albany, NY – Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has proclaimed tomorrow, March 6, 2020 “Special Olympics New York Day” across the state as the nonprofit organization marks the 50th anniversary of its founding.
“For 50 years, Special Olympics New York athletes, and those who support them, have cultivated a climate of inclusion that continues to grow throughout New York’s schools and communities,” said Special Olympics New York President and CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We are so grateful to Governor Cuomo for recognizing the impact of our movement and encouraging New Yorkers to reflect on the value of including people with intellectual differences on ‘Special Olympics New York Day.’”
Attached Photo Caption: President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman and Athletes (from left) Matt Graham, Kevin Brown and Ed Lawless receive “Special Olympics New York Day” proclamation.
The Governor’s Proclamation reads as follows:
Whereas, we all recognize the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles and the benefits of lifelong fitness and exercise for everyone; since 1970, Special Olympics New York has been providing training in a variety of Olympic-style sports for children and adults with special needs and intellectual differences, giving them the opportunity to participate in challenging competitive and recreational events; and
Whereas, Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country and the sixth largest in the world; the nonprofit organization serves more than 67,000 athletes, including children, youth, and adults, from all over the Empire State, providing them with an opportunity to compete in 22 sports, throughout the year; and
Whereas, in addition to these athletes and their devoted fans and families, the Special Olympics New York community includes more than 40,000 dedicated volunteers and more than 8,000 students in more than 220 Unified Champion Schools, where teams of students, both with and without intellectual disabilities, play competitive, inclusive, interscholastic Unified Sports; and
Whereas, this year, Special Olympics New York celebrates a remarkable 50 years of giving athletes not only the opportunity to play and enjoy a sport, but to become a champion; in the summer and winter, qualifying athletes come together for Olympic-style competitions at the exciting Special Olympics New York State Games that recognize a participant’s determination, training, goal-setting, and achievements and can even lead to the USA Games and the World Games; and
Whereas, today, on behalf of the people of the State of New York, I commend President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman, the Board of Directors, the hard-working staff of Special Olympics New York, the athletes, coaches, families, volunteers, partners, and all supporters on celebrating the milestone anniversary of the founding of this dynamic agency which will long continue to instill motivation, confidence, and wellness in aspiring athletes with special needs, now and in the generations to come;
Now, Therefore, I, Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim March 6, 2020 as Special Olympics New York Day throughout the Empire State.
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About Special Olympics New York
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 68,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 220 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. 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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By Savannah Taylor
I spent Saturday, February 21st as a volunteer on the Emergency Medical Staff for the 2020 Special Olympics New York Winter Games. And let me say, I wouldn’t have traded it for the world. I was there from a little before 7 a.m. to a little after 10 p.m. Although it was a 15-hour day, I would do it again in a heartbeat. Because, now that I’m home and able to reflect, there’s one fact I now recognize as true: Special Olympics truly is what the name says. It’s special!
I witnessed athletes who care about more than the game. They care about the passion, drive, and character they put into it. I also worked with many volunteers who helped remind me what EMS is really about: Serving the community.
I can honestly say I would spend money to watch Special Olympics competition rather than watch any high school, college, or professional sports for free. Here’s why.
First off, I witnessed the most kind and caring people I have ever seen. In one game, I witnessed an athlete who kept falling down, yet a member of the opposing team helped him up every time he fell. The idea of helping someone on the opposite team astonished me. It’s rare to see that at the high school level. I was glad to see the caring nature of the athletes.
Secondly, every interaction I had with any athlete was lovely. They thanked me for volunteering, asked me questions, and were genuinely interested. Many athletes approached me just to express how happy they were to attend the Games. Honestly, seeing how happy they were made me realize how happy I was to be there.
And lastly, the group of volunteers I worked with taught me many invaluable lessons. I learned so much about creating a kind, friendly, and caring atmosphere, as well as new methods of doing paperwork and new ways of doing things to get around barriers.
It was amazing how this wonderful group of people took time out of their lives and jobs just to help the community. The volunteers had a positive demeanor with the athletes, coaches, and other staff throughout the event. They took their time and did everything they could to get the athletes back on the field as soon as possible. Many of the volunteers I worked with also reminded me why I love EMS and why I should never leave it.
All in all, Winter Games was amazing, and I can’t thank those who gave me this opportunity enough. It was so rewarding to be a part of Special Olympics New York.
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1,000 Athletes & Coaches from Across NYS to Compete in 6 Sports
Rochester, NY – It all comes down to this. After a season of training, approximately 1,000 athletes and coaches from across the state will travel to Rochester this weekend for the 2020 Special Olympics New York Winter Games, the highest level of competition offered in the state. Athletes will compete in six winter sports: Alpine & Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowboarding and Snowshoe.
“Special Olympics New York athletes competing this weekend have outplayed more than 30,000 of their peers in floor hockey, and more than 2,000 in the remaining sports, to earn this weekend’s shot at the gold medal. This is the moment they have all been waiting for,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We are so proud to be back in Rochester this year for the 2020 Winter Games, and to mark the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics New York in this amazing, generous community.”
The Winter Games are open to the public, free of charge. On site or online donations to support athlete training and competition are appreciated. The Games will be held as follows:
Friday, Feb. 21
Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 E. Main St, Rochester
6:00 – 7:30 pm – Athlete Health Performance Stations
6:30 – 7:30 pm – VIP Reception
8:00 – 9:30 pm – Opening Ceremonies
Keynote Speaker: Loretta Claiborne, Special Olympics Chief Inspiration Officer & six-time World Games Gold Medalist
Saturday, Feb. 22
8:00 am – 5:00 pm – Sports Competitions
- Cross Country Skiing: Bristol Mountain Ski Resort, 5589 Hill Rd., Canandaigua
- Figure Skating: Genesee Valley Sports Complex, 131 Elmwood Ave., Rochester
- Floor Hockey: Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 E. Main St, Rochester
- Cross Country Skiing & Snowboarding: Swain Resort, 2275 Co Rd., Swain
- Snowshoe: Rochester Community Sports Complex, 460 Oak St., Rochester
6:00 – 9:30 pm – Athlete Health Screenings, Riverside Convention Center
8:00 pm – Closing Ceremonies & Victory Dance
Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 E. Main St, Rochester
Media are invited and encouraged to attend. Please contact Casey Vattimo (518.470.9909) or Robyn Armando (518.588.3459) to coordinate interviews with athletes, coaches, volunteers and staff attending the Winter Games.
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About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving more than 68,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 220 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. 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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1,000 Athletes & Coaches from Across NYS to Compete
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Rochester, NY – The Special Olympics New York Winter Games will take place February 22-23 in various venues throughout the Greater Rochester Area. Nearly 1,000 athletes and coaches from across the state will participate.
The entire event is free and open to the media and the public. It will be held as follows:
VIP Reception
Friday, February 22, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Riverside Convention Center
123 E. Main Street, Rochester
Opening Ceremonies
Friday, February 22, 8:00 p.m.
Riverside Convention Center
123 E. Main Street, Rochester
Athletic Competitions
Saturday, February 23, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Floor Hockey – Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 E. Main Street, Rochester
- Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding, Showshoe – Swain Resort, 2275 Co Rd 24, Swain
- Figure Skating – Genesee Valley Sports Complex, 131 Elmwood Ave., Rochester
- Cross Country Skiing – Bristol Mountain Ski Resort, 5589 S. Hill Rd., Canandaigua
Closing Ceremonies and Victory Dance
Saturday, February 23, 8:00 p.m.
Riverside Convention Center
123 E. Main Street, Rochester
The weekend will kick-off with a VIP Reception hosted by Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman to thank Winter Games Honorary Chair, Monroe County Executive Cheryl DiNolfo, as well as the games organizing committee and major sponsors. Local government officials and Special Olympics New York athletes will also attend. Opening Ceremonies will include the ceremonial parade of athletes, local entertainment, and the Law Enforcement Torch Run to light the official cauldron and declare the 2019 Winter Games open.
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About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving nearly 68,000 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; 518.930.4890; rarmando@nyso.org
#SpecialOlympicsNY #SOgamesNY #BaAFan
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Interactive Stations Designed to Support Athlete Health & Wellness
Nearly 1,000 Athletes & Coaches from Across NYS to Attend Winter Games in Rochester Feb. 22-23
Wednesday, February 20, 2019
ROCHESTER, NY — Special Olympics New York will unveil its all-new performance stations at Winter Games in Rochester this week. The performance stations are a new component of the organization’s health and wellness initiative, designed to further ensure Special Olympics New York athletes can be at their personal best when it comes time to compete.
The six-station circuit begins with Competition Readiness, where volunteers help athletes create a pre-competition routine. Athletes will then process through Nutrition, Hydration, Physical Activity and Mental Preparation Stations, where they will receive tips and tools tailored to higher performance in their sport. At the end of the circuit, athletes can share a commitment on a Pledge Wall, learn about Local Opportunities that offer products or services to help them be successful, and sign on to #Fit5NY, a Special Olympics New York program and online community that encourages daily nutrition, hydration, and fitness.
“We are so proud of our Winter Games athletes. They have worked hard and trained all year to reach this statewide competition, and we want to give them everything they need to perform at their very best,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “Thank you to all of the volunteer clinicians and medical students who will staff our Performance Stations and health screenings, and to our many sponsors who have donated their products, time, and expertise to the health and wellness initiatives taking place at Winter Games.”
Performance Stations will be set up at Riverside Convention Center Friday, prior to opening ceremonies, and again all day Saturday, near each of the competitions at various venues throughout Rochester.
In addition to the performance stations, Winter Games will also have free Healthy Athletes screenings for athletes in several disciplines including dentistry, audiology, podiatry, physical fitness, general wellness and mental health. The Healthy Athletes program, which is offered at all major Special Olympics New York events, provides athletes with on site screening, treatment when possible, and referral to a specialist when necessary.
“Our Healthy Athlete screenings provide an incredible service for all who participate. In addition to preventing the development of major health issues through the screening itself, athletes have an opportunity to leave with prescription eye glasses or hearing aids, right on the spot,” said Hengsterman. “The screenings also give local medical professionals and students an opportunity to receive training and gain experience working with people with intellectual disabilities – one of the most underserved population in terms of quality healthcare.”
Nearly 1,000 athletes and coaches from across New York state will participate in Winter Games in Rochester Friday and Saturday this week, competing in in six winter sports: Alpine & Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowboarding, and Snowshoeing. A full schedule of events for the Winter Games is available online.
The Winter Games begin at 8 p.m. Friday, February 22, with Opening Ceremonies at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center, which will also serve as host of the Floor Hockey competition. Competitions will also take place Saturday at Swain Resort (Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding), Genesee Valley Sports Complex (Figure Skating), Bristol Mountain Ski Resort (Cross Country Skiing), and Cobbs Hill Park (Snowshoe).
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About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is the largest statewide Special Olympics chapter in the country, serving nearly 68,000 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 & Communications, (518) 588-3459, rarmando@nyso.org
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Local Entrepreneur Michele Liddle Named as First Special Olympics New York “Athlete Health Champion”
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
ROCHESTER, NY — Special Olympics New York President and CEO Stacey Hengsterman and The Perfect Granola Founder Michele Liddle today announced a partnership to promote athlete health in the Greater Rochester area. 
As part of its official sponsorship for the Special Olympics New York Winter Games, which will be held in Rochester Feb. 22-23, the company will provide 2,000 of its signature gluten-free granola bars to athletes. The bars will be handed out as athletes finish their competitions – encouragement to refuel after burning their energy on the ski slopes, skating rinks, or floor hockey courts.
“When Michele and I got to talking about her sponsorship of Winter Games, we quickly agreed that there was so much more we could do together to promote health and wellness among our athletes in Rochester,” said Hengsterman. “As Special Olympics New York’s first official ‘Athlete Health Champion’, Michele will be exploring new and innovative ways to help our athletes lead healthier lives not only during this major competition but year-round. We are grateful to have fans like Michele who know, like we do, that it’s harder to compete if you’re not healthy.”
“We are so excited to form a long-term partnership with Special Olympics New York as an Athlete Health Champion,” said Liddle. “Eating well is so important for overall health and wellness. We look forward to supporting the Winter Games and developing new programs throughout the year we support this wonderful organization.”
The Perfect Granola began in Michele’s family kitchen as a way to feed the hungry, preparing food that could be given away to help those in need while also empowering the underserved. Today, The Perfect Granola gives thousands of pounds of food and support to hundreds of organizations. Its products are pure and simple and don’t just feed your body, but nourish your soul. To learn more, visit www.theperfectgranola.com.
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About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is the largest state chapter in the country, serving nearly 68,000 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 & Communications, (518) 588-3459, rarmando@nyso.org
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