On the weekend of January 11 – 12, over 300 athletes competed in 25 teams for gold in floor hockey and volleyball. At Absegami High School, sticks were handled and goals were scored, while at Galloway Township Middle School digs and serves were on the menu. But it wasn’t all competition. Typical for Special Olympics New Jersey, the dinner highlight was a dance party at the competition hotel, hosted by The Voice competitor Mara Justine.

Healthy Athletes clinics were held in both competition locations, as well as at the event hotel. All athletes had the opportunity to take advantage of nutrition and hydration tips and learn about the importance of staying active and healthy. They were also taught about the importance of emotional wellness, and had the chance to set their own markers at baseline concussion assessment stations. Some even had their individual new mouthguards fitted.

An additional highlight was the Young Athletes event, where children ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities shared the joy of sports and play. Students from Stockton University’s Occupational Therapy Department volunteered as part of their graduate course. For some athletes and families this is the first time they hear about Special Olympics New Jersey, and the steady increase in participation over the past few years demonstrates how important this program is. Another, always very reliable metric, is how many smiles one can see. And judging by that, the event was a huge success.

A total of over 400 items were bought at the souvenir stands at both locations. We can’t wait to see them being worn by our amazing supporters!

And last, but not least: A huge thank you to the over 120 amazing volunteers who made the success of both days possible.

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