Inside Nazareth University’s Golisano Training Facility, 350 athletes from across New York State gathered to compete in the floorball competition. The track was divided into four courts, each hosted a number of competitors in brightly colored uniforms from the mellow yellow of the Buffalo Yellowjackets to the stars and stripes of the Manhattan Flames. Teams warmed up in the early morning light as the first round of competition began at 9:30 am.

The athletes were brimming with energy as they cheered for each other on the sidelines. After his match, goalie Stefano Cato exclaimed, “We just need to keep healthy and keep up the energy!”

In between matches, athletes took breaks for a quiet moment in a secluded area, to stretch on the grass turf, or walk along the windowed hallways. They enjoyed their lunches together, as well as the thrilling highs and lows of competition.