On Oct. 16, 31 Albion students traveled to The College at Brockport to join hundreds of competitors for the 2026 Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged.
The highly anticipated event happens every fall offering physically challenged students from across the Central and Western NY regions the opportunity to participate in competitive sports and recreational activities adapted to best suit their unique abilities.
Athletes, which included students from elementary, middle and high school, received a special send-off from classmates before loading on to the bus that morning. Once there, they participated in the traditional opening ceremony where they paraded through the gym together. Attendees listened to opening remarks from event organizers and witnessed fellow athletes carry the torch and hold it high as they recited the Games’ Creed to signify the start of the event.
Paired up with peer mentors from the high school, athletes ventured to different stations, including field events such as shot put, long jump, discus, club throw, precision throw, archery, and obstacle courses; track events included 40-200 meter dashes as well as wheelchair-specific races. Athletes got to connect with their peer mentors earlier in the week where they practiced events in the elementary gymnasium, which helped build confidence and anticipation for the day.
Athletes were not only surrounded by enthusiastic peer mentors, but familiar school staff, teachers, and family members were there to cheer them on. Athletes will reunite with their peer mentors for an in-school awards ceremony in November where they will celebrate their achievements.
This is the 39th consecutive year of the games, powered by Camp Smile Inc., supported by the Webster Lions Club.
