Opening Ceremonies 2020
Torch Ceremony
Vinnie Alberti lights the Special Olympic cauldron during the Opening Ceremonies. (Photo by Eakin Howard)
Albert Alberti, left, and Vinnie Alberti hold the torch before leading the athlete's parade into the Opening Ceremonies. (Photo by Eakin Howard)
Vinnie Albertti, left, and Albert Albertti carry in the torch during the Opening Ceremonies before lighting the Special Olympic cauldron to officially start the 2020 Special Olympics New York Winter Games. (Photo by Lyz Rider)
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Harrison Phillips
Vinnie Alberti, left, and Albert Alberti pose with Buffalo Bills' Harrison Phillips (99) before carrying the torch into the Opening Ceremonies. (Photo by Eakin Howard)
"We're in such a great area of the world, in New York, where they really believe in the inclusion revolution."Harrison Phillips
The events of previous New York Olympic Games were represented through montage videos, showcasing footage from the prior Special Olympic games and showcasing some of the games’ most celebrated athletes. As a special appearance, Harrison Phillips, defensive quarterback for the Buffalo Bills spoke at the ceremony. In describing his mindset during NFL games, he stated, “When I’m getting in my stance and I’m thinking about things, yes, I’m thinking about my family, yes, I’m thinking about all the obstacles in my life, but I also think of you guys because you’re my heroes and I appreciate you so much.” for the athletes. To cap off the reminiscence, the award for Coach of the Year was given to the widely loved and celebrated, “Coach Joe.”
- Edward R. Brydalski
Buffalo Bills' Harrison Phillips (99) takes a photo with a group of people during the Opening Ceremonies. (Photo by Eakin Howard)
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