State Summer Games to be hosted by Siena College, all events free and open to the public
ALBANY, NY – Special Olympics New York, State Summer Games is seeking community members to volunteer during the upcoming 2017 State Summer Games, hosted by Siena College from June 16-18, as well as sponsors to help defray competition costs for athletes participating in this year’s events.
The Summer Games are the largest of two annual state games and 5,048 competitive experiences held each year throughout New York. There are 2,000 volunteer opportunities throughout the entire weekend. Support for competitions and events includes set-up and breakdown of sports venues, distribution of lunches, selling merchandise, and helping with the Opening Ceremonies and Olympic Village.
Additionally, volunteers are needed to staff the following athletic competitions: Athletics (Track & Field), Aquatics, Basketball, Bowling, Powerlifting, Gymnastics, Tennis and Volleyball. Individuals are also welcome to participate by cheering the athletes onto victory as ‘FANS in the Stands’ at the Opening Ceremonies and events during the three-day event.
“Volunteers are such an essential part of the State Summer Games, and without whom the event would not be possible. The games provide our athletes with a chance to demonstrate their incredible skills, and showcase their courage and joy. Being a witness to this experience as a volunteer is an incredible opportunity,” said Neal Johnson, President and CEO of Special Olympics New York. “We encourage the community to join us in making these games possible and being part of the dream for our athletes.”
During the State Summer Games, more than 1,500 athletes and coaches from across the state will travel to the Capital Region to participate in eight Olympic-style sports. Siena College will serve as the main host and competition site for the events, with support from Hudson Valley Community College, University at Albany, The Sage Colleges, World Class Gymnastics, Latham, and Spare Time Bowling Alley.
The Opening Ceremony will be held on Friday, June 16 at 8 p.m. at Siena College and will feature the Parade of Athletes, entertainment, and the lighting of the Special Olympics Cauldron. The Athletic Competition will begin on Saturday, June 17.
Members of the surrounding communities who are interested in volunteering during the State Summer Games can register today by visiting the Special Olympics New York website at specialolympicsny.org.
The Summer Games are one of two annual state games and one of more than 5,000 total competitive experiences held each year throughout New York. All events are free and open to the public.
For more information and to register online, please visit the website at specialolympicsny.org. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sarah Martinez at [email protected] or (518) 936-4468.