Special Olympics New York Honors Anthony Scibelli with Rising Star Award
Long Island, NY – Special Olympics New York is proud to recognize Anthony Scibelli of Long Island as the recipient of this year’s Rising Star Award, honoring his extraordinary dedication, leadership, and impact as a coach, advocate, and community leader.
Since joining Special Olympics New York as a coach, Anthony Scibelli created the first-ever Special Olympics training club at the Nassau BOCES Seaman Neck Middle School in the 23-24 school year. He was the first Long Island coach in several years to begin a school-based program at a BOCES school that attends community competitions on weekends, truly separating him from others in the Long Island region. By starting a training club, Anthony created competitive sports opportunities for Nassau BOCES students. In the 24-25 school year, Seaman Neck Middle School added soccer, snowshoe, and bowling programs, all because of Anthony’s efforts. Anthony has proven that he is dedicated to the Special Olympics mission and works hard to bring competitive sports opportunities to youth with IDD no matter where he goes.
What truly sets Anthony apart is his dedication to each and every one of his students and always strives to help them develop as athletes. Because Anthony has such a clear understanding of the Special Olympics mission, he serves as a positive role model for all – coaches, community members, and athletes alike. Anthony also demonstrates such great sportsmanship and encourages athletes to never give up no matter the outcome.
“Anthony Scibelli has truly changed what’s possible for student athletes,” said Special Olympics NY President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “Anthony, your passion, leadership, commitment, inspires us all.”
“His dedication to equity and inclusion in sport is outstanding,” said Long Island Region Associate Director of Program Emily Mohlin, who nominated Anthony for the award. “He understands that many students don’t always have access to competitive sports, and he always works hard to give his students the chance to compete. He truly lives the mission of Special Olympics every day!”
The Rising Star Award highlights coaches that are under the age of 25. These coaches are early in their career and have already made significant contributions to Special Olympics at a local, regional, or national level. This award focuses on coaches that have demonstrated a commitment to the organization while having the potential to make a large impact in the future. One coach from each of the nine regions is nominated for the award, and the winner is selected by the Special Olympics NY Statewide Coaches Committee.
About Special Olympics New York
Special Olympics New York is one of the largest state chapters in the country, serving more than 51,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 375 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid and a 3-star rating from Charity Navigator, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.
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