East Islip High School’s varsity softball team volunteered at the Special Olympics Long Island Region Spring Games, held May 3 at the Plainedge Athletic Complex in North Massapequa. Each member of the softball team teamed up with Amityville High School's “VIP” group, a life skills special education class that participated in this spring’s Special Olympics. EI coach Jasonn McGowan teamed up with Amityville varsity softball coach Rob Annese to male this special day happen.

“Volunteering at the Special Olympics and helping the kids have a fun day was an incredible experience,” freshman Cate Ropiak said. “Seeing their smiles and joy was truly inspiring. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a meaningful event.”

“It was a great day,” sophomore Marisa Renganeschi said. “I had an amazing opportunity to make a connection with my athlete. I was so proud that she won first place in both of her events.”

“After spending the day at the Special Olympics, I felt a really strong connection with my athlete,” junior Kayla Varga said. “It was an amazing opportunity to meet new people and share our love of sports. Seeing them smile big on the podium and winning medals was so cool.”

“Volunteering at the Special Olympics showed me appreciation for the things we take for granted,” East Islip freshman Delaney Crowe said.