Oakdale, N.Y. – Members of the Dowling College women’s basketball team participated in the Special Olympics New York, Long Island Region Fall Classic over the weekend. The event was hosted by Cantiague Park and Hicksville Firehouse Station No. 3 in Hicksville, N.Y.
The games took place in both locations with over 600 athletes participating in events such as softball, soccer, golf, bocce and cross-country. Dowling’s players and coaches were involved in various events including the cross country race and various golf stations creating a fun and positive environment for the athletes.
Senior Nicole Caggiano stated, “Volunteering with Special Olympics was truly an amazing experience for me. Seeing the smiles on the contestants faces and witnessing a large support group was amazing. It is great to know that even though we are not all the same on the outside, we still maintain the desire inside of us to compete at what we do best.”
Special Olympics New York is a private non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of skills and friendship with their families, Special Olympics athletes and the community. Through their participation in Special Olympics New York athletes gain confidence and build a positive self-image, which carries into the classroom, the home, the workplace and the community.
Provided by the Dowling Sports Information Department.
