New Paltz, NY — The State University of New York at New Paltz Student-Athlete Advisory Committee hosted their annual Special Olympics program Sunday in the Athletic and Wellness Center.
 
Around 20 student-athletes volunteered to work the event, including Hawks from the men's and women's volleyball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's lacrosse, softball and field hockey programs. Six teams participated in the Special Olympics Basketball Tournament with the Hawks helping officiate, keeping stats and scoreboard for the para-athletes to be fully immersed in their athletic environment.
 
"The Special Olympics basketball tournament is something New Paltz SAAC hosts every year with the Special Olympics," said SAAC member and Hawks women's volleyball junior Cate DiGiacomo who helped organize the event. "It was a great event with a lot of engagement for everyone involved… We hope to make it an even bigger event with more teams participating next year, and we want to thank everyone who helped make it possible."
 
 
The Hawks shared their experience as college athletes and participating athletes shared their experience participating in different sports within Special Olympics.
 
The Special Olympics is truly a life changing experience, allowing the athletes to be a part of a team and to play at a level that is competitive, and fun is valued at SUNY New Paltz. The energy was contagious, with the crowd's exuberance after each basket. The priceless smiles of the athletes, the staff, and the stands left an incredible impact on future athletes participating and for Special Olympics in the future.

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