A team of educators from the Massapequa School District shared their highly successful Challenger sports program during the New York State School Boards Association annual convention and education expo in New York City on Oct. 24. Administrators and teachers discussed the inclusive athletics program that provides students the chance to experience belonging, teamwork and pride regardless of ability.
Superintendent Dr. William Brennan and Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services Dr. Jordan McCaw kicked off the presentation with great excitement, expressing how inspiring it is to see the entire school community rally around students through the Challenger program. They spoke about how the energy, joy and sense of connection at each event reflect the collective heart and dedication of Massapequa’s students, staff and families.
Massapequa’s Challenger program began 15 years ago as one basketball team and has grown to include cheerleading, soccer and track and field. Presenters of “Igniting Inclusion: The Challenger Journey” were Berner Middle School Supervisor of Special Education Ken Petersen and Challenger coaches Sal Calderone, Lauren Dean, Megan Porter and Kathleen Wegener, who shared the program’s evolution and the positive impact it has had on students. A special video message from Berner Physical Education Chairperson and Athletics Coordinator Ed Hoffman underscored how collaboration among teachers, coaches and families has been central to the program’s success.
The Challenger program provides students with special needs the chance to join a sports team, and participants compete against athletes from neighboring districts. The program is open to grades 6-12, including ungraded and above 12th grade students.
“Families report that their children are more confident, independent and socially engaged, and those gains extend far beyond athletics,” Mr. Petersen said. “Some of the most powerful moments come from stories like a student making multiple three-point baskets, crowds chanting student names or a sibling or peer volunteering as a buddy. Each moment reinforces that inclusion strengthens the entire community.”
The presentation included recommendations on how to start a successful Challenger sports program, and covered topics such as game officiating, practices, safety, supervision and budget. It also highlighted opportunities for student leadership as general education students serve as buddies for the athletes.
“It was an honor to attend and present at this year’s New York State School Boards Association convention, where we had the opportunity to showcase the incredible talents of our students and celebrate the dedication of our faculty and staff,” Board of Education President Kerry Wachter said. “It’s truly inspiring to see how our Massapequa community continues to come together to support, uplift and celebrate one another.”
Massapequa’s presenters highlighted how the Challenger program thrives because of the support of the community, with a large turnout of students, staff and parents at games. The effort to celebrate different abilities has been highly successful because its events brings so many people together from all corners of the district.
“When you come to Massapequa for a Challenger game, you don’t just see inclusion – you feel it,” Dr. Brennan said. “The energy, the joy, the sense of community are beyond inspiring. It’s a true reflection of the heart, passion and commitment of our faculty, staff, parents and – most importantly – our students.”