At its annual Night of Champions, Special Olympics New Jersey honors and celebrates outstanding individuals and groups.
In the year leading up to the big event, award candidates are identified and nominated by their peers. These nominations are reviewed by a committee, and finally the award recipients are revealed. Awards categories include 13 outstanding county athletes, several volunteers, spirit awards, Special Olympics New Jersey Hall of Fame, Law Enforcement Torch Run Hall of Fame, and a Lifetime Achievement award.
The Outstanding Local Training Program Award recognizes programs that have shown the best example of high-quality sports training for Special Olympics New Jersey Athletes. The award was presented by County Coordinator for Atlantic, Cape May, and Cumberland Counties, Linda Cobb.
“The Upper Township Challenger Sports local training program began several years ago with a floor hockey team, and quickly added a track and field team. The program has consistently welcomed additional athletes, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity.
A few years ago, when another local program faced the tragic loss of their coordinator, UT Challenger Sports stepped in to take on bowling. Daryl DiTroia, the LTP coordinator, just smiled and said, “We can do that!”
In 2023, a similar situation arose when a floor hockey team needed a new home when their LTP has some issues. Athletes and families turned to UT Challenger Sports for assistance, and DiTroia and his team welcomed them, saying, “We’ve got this—come on over!”
Additionally, in 2023, another local track and field program decided to reduce its number of athletes. In response, Daryl just smiled again, and his team not only doubled the size of their track program but also introduced a softball team for the summer season.
DiTroia will never say “I cannot do this,” but rather “How can we make this happen?” The Upper Township Challenger Sports program is truly focused on the athletes.“