Number of Participants: 26
Hours Donated: 11
Value of Time Served: $2,417
Event Amount Raised: $5,000
Event Type: Children & Youth
Sport: Boys Lacrosse
School: Scarsdale Senior High School
Date: March 27, 2024
Location:
Scarsdale High School
Post Road, Scarsdale
NY
About:
In the heart of Scarsdale, a movement is growing, one that goes beyond the boundaries of sports to touch hearts and change lives. Every Sunday for four weeks, the air at the local fields vibrates with enthusiasm and camaraderie as volunteers gather for a special mission: to coach lacrosse for individuals with special needs. This initiative, part of a broader program known as Able Lacrosse, began its latest season just last Sunday, with each session lasting an enriching 1.5 hours. Preparation for this labor of love involved a detailed one-hour Zoom meeting to ensure every volunteer was aligned with the team’s mission, complemented by essential online training.
The program recently celebrated a landmark event—its first wheelchair lacrosse game, where student-athletes from Scarsdale joined forces with their counterparts from Yorktown and wheelchair-bound athletes. This wasn’t just a game; it was a testament to the spirit of inclusivity and teamwork. Volunteers dedicated five hours to setting up, participating in, and cleaning up after the game, embodying the true essence of community support.
James Synowiez, Variety Lacrosse Coach, Began his personal journey with Able Lacrosse dating back to its inception in 2020. Having been a teacher to Christian Dias, the Co-Founder, and his sister Elle, who inspired the creation of Able Lacrosse, James was drawn to the program’s potential to offer his special needs daughter an entry into athletics at her own pace. What started as a hopeful venture has since blossomed into a beacon of hope and joy for coaches, volunteers, and athletes alike. He has witnessed the transformational power of this program firsthand, prompting him to encourage boys from his varsity team to volunteer. Now, it has become a tradition for the entire varsity team to participate, spreading the message of inclusivity and compassion.
From humble beginnings in a small park with just six kids, therapists, coaches, and high school volunteers, Able Lacrosse has evolved into a multifaceted sports initiative offering lacrosse, field hockey, volleyball, basketball, wheelchair sports, and flag football. This growth is a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites for a common cause.
The guiding principle, “More Than A Game,” reflects their belief in the power of sports to foster inclusion and acceptance across various communities. It’s a reminder that through the medium of athletics, we have the unique opportunity to build bridges and create meaningful connections.
The momentum continues to build with events like the High School Lacrosse Scrimmage, which brought together 12 high schools from Section 1 in support of Able athletics. The team raised over $5k!
Looking ahead, the 2nd Annual Able Lacrosse Classic, where Scarsdale faces off against Yorktown, promises to be not just a showcase of skill and competition but also a celebration of the unifying power of sports.
As we reflect on the journey of Able Lacrosse, it’s clear that what started as a small initiative has grown into a vibrant, life-changing movement. Through dedication, teamwork, and a shared love for the game, we are proving that sports can indeed be “More Than A Game” – a catalyst for inclusion, understanding, and lasting change.