The “Special Needs Sports Program, originated in 2013, is a program for developmentally and physically challenged youth, helping them to enjoy the full benefits of sports participation in an athletic environment structured to their abilities.

 

The value of our Special Needs Sports Program is found in the proven therapeutic and socialization benefits of participating in sports, the strengthening of participants’ self-esteem, the opportunities to mainstream into other divisions of play, and the disciplines of teamwork, sportsmanship, and fair play.

 

Our Mission: To provide children with special needs the opportunity to succeed at playing sports in a program structured to their abilities.

 

Our Goal: The most fundamental goal of our Special Needs Sports Program is to give everyone a chance to play, regardless of limitations.

 

Sports that the Division of Recreation Special Needs Sports Program have hosted and offers: Pillo Hockey, Basketball, Kickball, Soccer, Flag Football, Track & Field, Bowling.

 

The Division of Recreation also hosts a Special Needs Sports Camp in the summer, along with the Special Needs Soccer Academy in the fall, and Buddy Baseball in the Spring.

 

The Division of Recreation has also received grants directly for the program. One highlight throughout the years was the SNY Special Needs Field Day.

 

The Bayonne High School Athletics Department, coaches and teams have been an integral part of the program. Their enthusiasm and dedication are what makes our special needs sports so great. BHS Athletics

 

“We are ecstatic on what we have accomplished as a community with our Division of Recreation Special Needs Sports Program. It has been an incredible 9 years of special needs sports and we are excited for the future of our participants.” Stated Pete Amadeo, Supervisor of Recreation.

 

The Division of Recreation will meet next on Saturday, March 19th, at 4:00pm, for bowling.

 

Buddy Baseball is a few months away with Opening Day scheduled for Saturday, May 7th.

 

For more information on the Division of Recreation Special Needs Sports Program, please contact Amadeo at 201-858-6129 or email BAYONNEREC@AOL.COM.