As a proud coach and past Gold Medalist at the Winter Games for the New Jersey Special Olympics (SONJ), I have had the privilege of seeing countless athletes achieve their dreams and break barriers. This season, athletes across the Garden State are gearing up for the 2025 Winter Games with a singular goal in mind: to compete and showcase their dedication, passion, and skill. Whether it’s in floor hockey, volleyball, alpine skiing, snowboarding, or figure skating, each athlete is preparing to shine on a statewide stage.
Training and Preparation: A Journey to the Winter Games
Across New Jersey, athletes have begun their training in earnest, focusing on honing their skills for the events coming up in January and February 2025. As a coach, it’s truly inspiring to witness the dedication and teamwork that goes into every practice, no matter the discipline. The athletes know that every minute counts as they prepare for their shot at glory at the state Winter Games.
The journey to the Winter Games is one of hard work, perseverance, and a passion for sport. The athletes will participate in a range of sports, from the fast-paced excitement of floor hockey and volleyball to the precision and technique needed in alpine skiing, snowboarding, and figure skating. The games will also feature cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and speed skating, with athletes competing at various venues across the state. Each of these events is an opportunity to not only compete for medals but also to bond with teammates, build confidence, and experience the joy of sportsmanship.
The 2025 Winter Games Schedule
The 2025 Winter Games are just around the corner, and the schedule is packed with exciting events. The first wave of competitions takes place on January 11-12, 2025, when floor hockey and volleyball will take center stage at Absegami High School and Galloway Township Middle School in Galloway, New Jersey. Athletes will compete for medals and the honor of representing their teams with pride.
- Volleyball: Galloway Township Middle School
100 S Reeds Rd., Galloway, New Jersey 08205 - Floor Hockey: Absegami High School
201 S Wrangleboro Road, Galloway, NJ 08205
In addition, the Young Athletes Program will also take place at Absegami High School on January 11, 2025, giving younger athletes a chance to get involved and experience the joy of the Special Olympics.
The next major event will be the February 3-4, 2025 competitions, which will feature alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and speed skating. These events will take place at Mountain Creek, National Winter Activities Center, and Skylands Ice World in Vernon and Stockholm, New Jersey.
- Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding: Mountain Creek, 200 Route 94, Vernon, NJ 07462
- Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing: National Winter Activities Center, 44 Breakneck Rd, Vernon Township, NJ 07463
- Speed Skating: Skylands Ice World, 2765 State Hwy 23, Stockholm, NJ 07460
Finally, the Figure Skating competition will take place on February 9, 2025, at Codey Arena in West Orange, New Jersey, where athletes will dazzle spectators with their precision and artistry.
- Figure Skating: Codey Arena, 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ
A Personal Connection to the Winter Games
As a Gold Medal-winning coach, I know firsthand the dedication, hard work, and teamwork that go into preparing for these events. My experience coaching for the New Jersey Special Olympics has taught me the value of perseverance and resilience. Every athlete that steps onto the ice, snow, or court is a winner in their own right, and it is my honor to support them in their journey.
For many athletes, the Special Olympics is about more than just medals; it’s about building self-confidence, achieving personal bests, and showing the world what they are capable of. I am incredibly proud to be part of this community and to coach the athletes who inspire not only me but all of New Jersey.
Join Us in Supporting Our Athletes
As the 2025 Winter Games approach, I encourage everyone in New Jersey to come out and support these incredible athletes. The energy, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship on display are truly awe-inspiring. Whether you are a family member, friend, or a fan of sports, your support means the world to these athletes.
Mark your calendars for the upcoming events, and get ready to cheer on our Special Olympics athletes as they make their way to the 2025 Winter Games. It’s going to be a season to remember, and we can’t wait to share it with you!
For more information about the 2025 Winter Games schedule and how to support our athletes, visit the New Jersey Special Olympics website. Let’s make this year the best Winter Games yet!
Go Team SONJ!
