DeSales University Welcomed More Than 700 Athletes for the Eighth Annual Special Olympics Eastern Fall Sectional
The luminosity from one Olympic torch and the cheering personalities of more than 700 Special Olympians outshone the rain and gray sky on Sunday, October 4, when DeSales University’s campus was transformed into a celebration of community spirit and inclusion.
Coordinated in partnership with Special Olympics Pennsylvania, the largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities, the event hosted athletes competing in six sports across several campus venues. The traditional opening ceremonies began behind Billera Hall before athletes took to the fields, courts, and competition spaces throughout the day.
Competitions included soccer, flag football, running and walking, bocce, volleyball, and powerlifting, drawing participants from across the eastern Pennsylvania region.
The event showcased the University's commitment to service and hospitality through the efforts of more than 500 volunteers. DeSales students, faculty and staff served as coaches, event staff, cheer squad members, and support personnel to help ensure a positive and safe experience for every athlete.
"Special Olympics competitions are about far more than medals. They're a celebration of courage, determination, and inclusion," said Jaime Gerjart, director of community service and advocacy at DeSales University. "With more than 700 athletes and 500 volunteers coming together on one campus, this is a powerful demonstration of our core value of hospitality."
For many student volunteers, the event offered a chance to put the University's mission into action while supporting athletes and their families, especially during October’s Respect Life Month, sponsored by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
“Hosting Special Olympics at DeSales has been the most meaningful and rewarding event I’ve experienced as a student,” said Preston DeGrazia ‘28, event director. “Watching the athletes give everything they have and receiving their awards brings joy to everyone. Having our students involved in the process reminds us why inclusion isn’t just a word at DeSales; it’s who we are. I’m proud of what we accomplished, and I’m even prouder of the people who made it happen.”
Throughout the day, DeSales' facilities served as competition venues, including the turf fields for flag football, the baseball stadium for running and walking events, Billera Hall's courts for bocce and volleyball, and the DeSales University Center conference rooms for powerlifting.
The annual event reflects the shared values of Special Olympics and DeSales by promoting inclusion, respect, and encouragement for individuals of all abilities to thrive through sport and community engagement.
Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competitions for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, creating opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and build lasting friendships.
As athletes, volunteers, and spectators filled campus throughout the day, the event served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that can be achieved when the University community comes together to make a difference in the lives of others.
“Participating in this event was an inspiring experience,” said Nina Harf ’28, event director. “Seeing our community come together to support such an important cause was truly beautiful. This event reflects DeSales’ value of service and commitment to making a positive impact. Being part of it was an honor, and every month of preparation was worthwhile. Seeing how valued and welcomed the athletes and their families felt throughout the event and knowing we played a role in creating that experience, was incredibly fulfilling.”