Niagara University is preparing to host the 2024 Special Olympics New York’s Western Regional Basketball Tournament at the Kiernan Recreation Center. It is anticipated that more than 200 Special Olympians and their families will attend the event, which will commence with an opening ceremony at 9:30 a.m. and conclude with team and skills awards.
Dr. Dennis Garland, an associate professor of education at Niagara University, has expressed his pride and humility in collaborating with Special Olympics New York and other members of the Western New York community to provide athletes with opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and engage in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with one another and the community. The university’s mission to inspire students to serve all members of society is in alignment with this experience, as it also provides students with opportunities that lead to careers in education, the nonprofit sector, and sport management.
The tournament has taken place at Niagara University since 2006, when the Special Olympics: games and event management course was established by Dr. Chandra Foote, the dean of the College of Education. This interdisciplinary collaboration between the colleges of Education and Hospitality, Sport, and Tourism Management equips students with knowledge about individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. They are trained to compete in the tournament and are prepared to plan and host the competition, which serves as the culminating experience for the course.
Apart from student involvement, various Niagara University academic and athletic sectors, as well as a variety of student clubs and organizations, will contribute to the success of the event.
The Special Olympics is a global organization that aims to help individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities participate as productive and respected members of society. The organization provides athletes with the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their skills and talents through sports training and competition. Moreover, it seeks to raise public awareness of their capabilities and needs.
As Niagara University prepares to welcome the participants and their families, the anticipation for the upcoming Special Olympics Regional Basketball Tournament continues to build excitement. The university’s dedication to providing these athletes with a platform to showcase their talents and skills demonstrates its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive community for all individuals.
The support of the entire university community ensures a successful and memorable event for everyone involved. The 2024 Special Olympics Regional Basketball Tournament promises to be a day of celebration, unity, and the triumph of the human spirit.