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SAAC, Student-Athletes Participate in Special Olympics Basketball Tournament at Coles

04/07/08

SAAC Special Olympics Basketball Photos (PDF)

A unique and memorable version of March Madness took place at the Jerome S. Coles Sports Center on March 30 when the New York University Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) participated in the 2008 Special Olympics New York Region Basketball Tournament.

More than 150 Special Olympians, including four teams hailing from three of New York City’s five boroughs, took part in various basketball and camaraderie-building activities.

In addition to two courts being set up for the basketball games, which included bleachers and NYU student-athletes cheering their new friends on, student-athletes such as women’s basketball junior All-American Jessica McEntee assisted with basketball-related skills activities.

However, there was more that the Special Olympians and SAAC members enjoyed together on this afternoon. An Athletes’ Village consisting of drawing, as well as making bags and jewelry, provided enjoyment for all. They also enjoyed a meal together to cap the day.

NYU had been preparing to host this event months in advance, opening the doors to both the Coles Sports Center and the Palladium Athletic Facility so that the Special Olympians could practice their basketball skills.

“It was a great opportunity for SAAC to get involved in the community,” said SAAC President and women’s volleyball junior Stacy Goto. “It is the first Special Olympics we have participated in, but we plan to do a lot more.”

Added Associate Athletic Director and SAAC advisor Noah LeFevre: “It was a terrific experience for our student-athletes, and more importantly it was a wonderful day for all of the Special Olympians who participated.”

This was the latest SAAC community outreach project, as the organization sponsored a successful “Think Pink” event to increase breast cancer awareness during the Violets’ men’s and women’s basketball doubleheader on Feb. 15.