: SPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW YORK UNIFIED PAIR AND COACH TO COMPETE IN THE 2024 MLS UNIFIED ALL-STAR GAME IN COLUMBUS, OHIO

For Immediate Release: Monday, July 22, 2024
Media Contact: Casey Vattimo, 518-470-9909, cvattimo@nyso.org

 

SPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW YORK UNIFIED PAIR AND COACH TO COMPETE IN THE 2024 MLS UNIFIED ALL-STAR GAME IN COLUMBUS, OHIO

Manhattan, NY – Athlete Thierno Diop, partner Emmanuel Rios Jr, and Coach Oscar Vicente, all from New York City, are about to compete in the event of a lifetime. Tomorrow, Tuesday, July 23 at 3:30 pm ET, they’ll join the 2024 Special Olympics Unified All-Star Game at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.

This event is an 11 vs. 11 competitive soccer match between players representing Special Olympics programs from all over the country. As with all Unified Sports competitions, these teams have athletes both with and without disabilities. Authentic uniforms are to be provided by Adidas, and both team’s coaches will be MLS legends.

“Our Unified pair being recognized at this level for their commitment and hard work means the world to them,” said Oscar Vicente, coach for this event and for the 721M City Hawks. “Thierno and Emmanuel are honored to represent Special Olympics New York, and they are ready to show the world what they can do.”

“Special Olympics New York is proud to be represented by Emmanuel, Thierno, and Coach Oscar in this year’s MLS Unified All-Star Game,” said Special Olympics NY President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “Good luck to all of the Special Olympics competitors from throughout the country!”

The Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Game is free and open to the public. Online spectators can tune in at https://www.youtube.com/@mls.

 

About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is one of the largest state chapters in the country, serving more than 45,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 300 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.com and a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, visit www.specialolympicsNY.org.