Volunteers Needed to Support the Games
The 2026 Special Olympics New York State Winter Games will return to Rochester, Friday, February 20, and Saturday, February 21. Special Olympics NY is seeking to fill nearly 100 volunteer positions, with the highest needs for experienced skiers/snowboarders, indoor roles in Floorball, and outdoor support in Snowshoe. Finally, the organization is hoping for additional support from medical students or healthcare professionals at the athlete health screenings on Saturday night, February 21.
“Since hosting the very first New York State Special Olympics Games in 1970, Rochester has played a special role in the history of our organization,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President & CEO of Special Olympics New York. “The passion and support of this community continues to be critical to the success of State Winter Games, and we are once again calling on volunteers to help create an inclusive, inspiring experience for more than 900 athletes from across the state.”
“This is the moment that we athletes have been waiting for to showcase our talents,” said local Gymnast Christopher Teich. “For us, it’s not just a competition, but a celebration of the hard work we put in all year. Whether we win or lose, we will show up and do our best. I invite the Rochester community today to come celebrate with us.”
The 2026 Special Olympics New York State Winter Games will bring approximately 900 athletes and coaches from throughout the state to Monroe County to compete in seven sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floorball, Gymnastics, Snowboarding, and Snowshoe.
Venues hosting the Games are: Riverside Convention Center (Opening & Closing Ceremonies); Golisano Training Center at Nazareth University (Floorball); Swain Ski Resort (Alpine Skiing & Snowboard); Bristol Mountain (Cross Country Skiing); Rochester Community Sports Complex (Snowshoe); Tim Horton’s Ice Complex (Figure Skating); Town of Henrietta Recreation Center (Gymnastics).
There are 350 total volunteer jobs that support the State Winter Games, with opportunities for individuals, families, and groups. Jobs include set-up and breakdown, registration, scorekeeping, timing, athlete escorts, and more. No experience is necessary. All volunteers will be trained on-site.
Volunteers are asked to register at https://www.specialolympics-ny.org/community/winter-games/. Those interested in volunteering as a group can send an email to volunteers@nyso.org.
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