State Summer Games to be hosted by Siena College, all events free and open to the public
ALBANY, NY – Special Olympics New York is seeking community members to volunteer during the upcoming 2017 State Summer Games, hosted by Siena College from June 16-18.The Summer Games are the largest of two annual state games and 5,048 competitive experiences held each year throughout New York.
There are 1,000 hands-on volunteer opportunities throughout the entire weekend. Currently, 560 members of the community have signed up to volunteer during the weekend. Another 500+ is hoped for as FANS in the Stands!
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 need for volunteers during the Athletic Competition on Saturday, June 17 is critical. Volunteers are needed to staff the following athletic competitions: Athletics (Track & Field), Aquatics, 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 athletic competitions during the three-day event. Time commitments for the Athletic Competition vary from half-day to full-day opportunities.
“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.”
Capital Region residents who are interested in volunteering during the State Summer Games can register today by visiting the Special Olympics New York website at specialolympicsny.org.
During the State Summer Games, more than 1,700 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.
State Summer Games is possible through the generous support of Airosmith Development, Arnoff Moving & Storage, Berkshire Bank, Chobani, Crossgates Mall, CSEA, Eastern Insurance, Ed Lewi and Associates, Federation Insurance Professionals of NY, Knights of Columbus, M&T Bank, Mazzone Hospitality, NBT Bank, Potratz Advertising, RAD Soap Co., Recovery Sports Grill, SEFCU, Spiral Design Studios, TD Bank, Up Your Biz, Upside Collective, We Think Advertising and Wrap City.
All events are free and open to the public. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sarah Martinez at [email protected] or (518) 936-4468.