Henry Viscardi School Athletes Earn 47 Medals at
Nassau County Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged Victory Challenge
June 21, 2013 – Albertson, NY – Fifty-four student athletes from the Henry Viscardi School at The Viscardi Center, which serves children with severe physical disabilities, earned 47 medals at the Nassau County Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged Victory Challenge held on May 31 and June 1, 2013.
The athletes, ranging in age from five to 21, competed in wheelchair and ambulatory events including basketball and track and field sports such as wheelchair racing, soft discus, club and precision throw, soft shot and distance kick. Collectively, they earned 25 gold, 13 silver and nine bronze medals. The School’s Varsity basketball team won the silver medal while the JV team took home the bronze.
“Our students have been competing at these Games for over 25 years,” shared Joy Krebs, a physical education teacher at the Henry Viscardi School who encourages the students to participate each year. The event is a great form of competition since it encompasses so many activities that are broken out by age, gender and ability so everyone has a chance to succeed. “The children love to compete and this event gives them an opportunity to do so. Without it, where else would they compete,” Krebs noted.
The Victory Challenge also gives the athletes a chance to meet students from other states and reconnect with graduates from Henry Viscardi School and those met at previous Games. Its carnival-like atmosphere and demonstration sports make it fun for all who attend.
The Henry Viscardi School at The Viscardi Center is a New York State supported 4201 school that offers parents of children with severe physical disabilities and who often require life-sustaining medical treatment throughout the day, a traditional educational setting option that provides rigorous academics and opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. Its specialized, accessible educational setting provides a fully-enriched academic program, a variety of therapies, assistive technology and medical supports to students who may otherwise need to receive instruction in their homes or a hospital.