“My advice would be you’re never too young to start, never too old to start,” parent Ronald DeMarino told WXXI reporter Stephanie Ballard Foster. “It is a wonderful experience. You gain friendships. You gain self-esteem and confidence, and it is something that I think you could do throughout your lifetime.” DeMarino’s son has participated in Special Olympics for 20 years.

Special Olympics New York serves more than 45,000 athletes across the state, making it one of the largest state chapters in the country. No matter their ability, every competitive athlete shares similar qualities like discipline, focus, passion, and the will to persevere. Special Olympics New York provides athletes with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to learn, practice, and refine their skills by offering year-round training and competitions.

As the mom of an athlete, New York President and CEO Stacey Hengsterman says she knew the competition was great, but not exactly how great it was until she took the job seven years ago. Hengsterman is hoping to double athlete participation over the next few years and position New York to be the most inclusive state in the country.

“Our athletes throughout New York have been training for this weekend’s competition all season long, and I know they’ll be bringing their best effort as they go for the gold,” said Hengsterman. “We are thrilled to be back in Monroe County for State Winter Games not only in 2025 but for three consecutive years. This is a community that so clearly values the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.”