Number of Participants: 164
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $5,543
Event Type: Children & Youth
Sport: Schools
School: Charles W Baker High School
Date: October 30, 2024
Location:
Baldwinsville Central School District
NY, USA
About:
The Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged continues to be a beacon of opportunity and inspiration for youth across New York State. Designed to be free of charge, these events welcome physically and developmentally challenged participants aged 5 to 21, offering them the chance to engage in athletic competition and adaptive recreational activities. With three flagship programs each year, the Games provide a space for athletes to shine and create unforgettable memories.
One of the largest gatherings, the Long Island Games Competition, is held in collaboration with Nassau County, drawing a crowd of 1,200 enthusiastic athletes. In partnership with Brockport College, the Brockport Games Competition hosts 200 to 250 athletes, delivering an exciting array of competitive sports. Lastly, the Syracuse Adapted Sport Clinic, organized with support from Baldwinsville Schools and the CNY Family Sports Centre, brings together 160 to 200 participants annually for a day filled with adaptive sports and fun.
The Syracuse Adapted Sport Clinic stands out as a unique and vibrant event. It is a day of pure joy, featuring various adaptive sports and recreational opportunities, with an emphasis on both engagement and friendly competition. Last year, new competitive events were introduced, adding an extra layer of excitement for the participants. The tremendous support from Baldwinsville Schools is instrumental in the clinic’s success, as staff members like Chris and his team set up and run numerous adapted activities, ensuring every participant has a fantastic experience.
Baldwinsville Schools also contribute by bringing a large group of dedicated student volunteers who assist in running the activities and engaging directly with participants. Their involvement provides a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where young athletes can try new sports and have fun alongside their peers.
The community’s generosity plays a crucial role in making this event possible. The CNY Family Sports Centre has graciously provided complimentary use of their facilities each year, a gesture that has been pivotal for the event’s continued success. The Camp Smile Foundation and local community members make sure that every attendee enjoys a complimentary lunch. Additionally, Baldwinsville Schools supply essential items like tables and chairs, ensuring that participants, staff, volunteers, and chaperones have a comfortable space throughout the day.
This year, the Syracuse Adapted Sport Clinic hosted 164 student participants from school districts across the Syracuse area, including an impressive turnout of 59 students from the Baldwinsville district alone, representing a range of ages from elementary to high school. Volunteers came from Baldwinsville Schools, North Syracuse Schools, and Mater Dei Academy, along with supportive committee heads from Palmyra, Rochester, and Buffalo. Special thanks go to the dedicated teachers who go above and beyond, managing paperwork, securing parent permissions, and coordinating transportation for their students. Their efforts make this opportunity a reality and create a meaningful impact for all involved.
The collaboration with Baldwinsville Schools exemplifies how community partnerships can elevate these events, making them a true win-win for everyone. Participants get to experience the thrill of sports, with medals awarded to those who choose to compete, and student volunteers gain invaluable experience working in an inclusive environment. Yet, the most rewarding aspect is the joy seen on the faces of the young athletes—their smiles and excitement are what make the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged a truly special experience.