Nassau County Executive Bruce A. Blakeman and student athletes from the Henry Viscardi Center have announced plans for the 2022 Nassau County Games for the Physically Challenged, which will be taking place June 2nd through June 4th at the Mitchel Field Athletic Complex and Nassau Community College.
Competitors travel from throughout New York State to Nassau County to participate in a weekend of fun athletic events alongside friends and family. There is great excitement surrounding the 36th Nassau County Games for the Physically Challenged, especially since this is the first year back after 2 years because of COVID-19.
New York State funding was eliminated for the Games several years ago and the office of the Nassau County Executive, with the help of private sector sponsors, has kept the Games alive.
County Executive Blakeman stated, “The student athletes who participate in the Nassau County Games for the Physically Challenged are truly inspirational to watch.” Blakeman continued. “I encourage all residents to come down to Mitchel Field June 2-4, to see the student athletes in action and join in on the fun! I would also like to extend thanks and gratitude to the generous sponsors that have allowed us to keep the Games alive here in Nassau County.”
With the general support of corporations such as Elias Properties, PSEG Long Island, the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, The Theresa Foundation, UBS, Bethpage Federal Credit Union, the NY Yankees and the Dee Foundation, athletes will compete in track, field, slalom, archery, swimming, wheelchair basketball and table tennis. Participants, ranging from ages 5 to 21, face disabilities including blindness, visually impaired, deaf, hearing impaired, spinal cord injured, amputees and those who have cerebral palsy, dwarfism and other physical challenges.
In its 36th year, the Games will take place in part due to contributions from King Kullen - America’ First Supermarket - who has been a long-time sponsor helping to feed the athletes, while Hofstra University has committed to housing the athletes with only minimal costs for maintenance. Nassau Community College is the venue hosting swimming, wheelchair basketball and table tennis events as well as the closing ceremonies. The Nassau County Department of Health and Medical Reserve Corp volunteers will once again work to provide onsite medical care and response during the games. In addition, NICE Bus will provide shuttle bus service for participants and has also generously donated $5,000 toward the Opening Ceremonies.
The cost of participation is free and the numbers of athletes increase each year, boasting over 1,000. The dedication brought forth by the parents, families, teachers, coaches and volunteers are critical to the success of the Games.
Operating with a small staff, the Games are facilitated by those who return year after year to a program they love.
“We are so excited to be back after a two-year pause and thank County Executive Blakeman for his support of this unique program. The athletes are ready to return to the thrill of the competition, the excitement of winning a medal and the comradery of the Games!” said Susan Maxwell, Director, Games for the Physically Challenged.
For more information, please visit Nassau County Games for the Physically Challenged website at www.nassaucountypcgames.com.