The Great Neck Spirits Special Olympics Basketball Program celebrated its 20th anniversary on June 6 with a pizza party and the dedication of a commemorative plaque at Great Neck North High School.
The plaque recognizes the 500-plus high school volunteers who have donated their time over the past 20 years to make the Great Neck Special Olympics a success. The plaque also honors the collaboration between the students, athletes, coaches, school system and community.
The Great Neck Spirits Special Olympics Basketball Program was founded 20 years ago by Alan Someck. The group meets weekly on Friday nights at the Great Neck North Middle School gym and hosts an annual Special Olympics basketball tournament in May. Athletes and volunteers from all over Long Island participate in the event. The Spirits also host a bowling party twice a year so everyone can enjoy a fun night out.
A dedicated group of coaches including Alan Someck, Jordana Cohen, Ed Fernbach, Chris Brown, Diana Polland, Jackie Mazur and Michele Murphy volunteer their time and energy every Friday night to teach the athletes skills and drills.
Suzette Gray, legislative aide to North Hempstead Town Councilwoman Lee R. Seeman, and mother of a long-time Spirits participant, presented Alan Someck with an official “Proclamation” on behalf of the Town of North Hempstead in honor of the 20th anniversary. As the Proclamation states: “He had a vision to encourage and further integrate special needs athletes of all levels of ability into the community and to create a sense of acceptance and understanding from the community”. Mission accomplished.
For more information about volunteering with the Great Neck Spirits, please contact Alan Someck at asomeck@gmail.com or visit greatneckspirits.wordpress.com.
Spirits Celebrate 20 Years
