Inclusion Revolution Radio Takes on MetLife Stadium

On this episode of Inclusion Revolution Radio, I’m your host RJ Nealon, filling in for the uber talented Novie Craven. Instead of being in a studio and behind a microphone, we’re on the ground at MetLife Stadium for the Unified Flag Football Championships presented by Special Olympics New York and the New York Jets. There are 12 high schools from across the New York City public school system, exemplifying what it means to be inclusive. Through Special Olympics Unified Sports®, Special Olympics athletes, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and Unified partners, individuals without intellectual disabilities, play sports together.

Despite cold and rainy conditions, cheers and laughter could be heard across the stadium. Athletes’ breaths could be seen filling the air, just like you’d see watching a New York Jets game during December. For many of these athletes, it’s their first time on an NFL field, let alone a stadium. It’s a common childhood dream that, for most, remains only a dream, but for these Special Olympics New York athletes and Unified partners, that dream has come true.

Throughout the episode, I’m interviewing Special Olympics New York athletes and Unified partners, along with Special Olympics New York President and CEO Stacey Hengsterman, Special Olympics New York Director of Unified Sports Vance Toure and Special Olympics New York Vice President of Downstate Operations Diane Colonna.

Listen to find out what the movement means to New York Jets linebacker Quincy Williams and defensive lineman Harrison Phillips, because they’re all in on inclusion!