Physically Challenged Athletes to Compete in Basketball Tournament

On December 10th, 2005, the Henry Viscardi School (HVS) will host its annual basketball tournament for children with disabilities in Albertson, NY. HVS, which has been operating for more than 50 years, provides essential educational services for children with severe physical disabilities. The tournament, which focuses on sportsmanship, is being sponsored by the Lisa Beth Gerstman Foundation (LBGF). The event, expected to attract over 500 people and about 100 disabled athletes, is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m., with the last match starting at 2:30 p.m

(PRWEB) December 10, 2005 -- On December 10th, 2005, the Henry Viscardi School (HVS) will host its annual basketball tournament for children with disabilities in Albertson, NY. HVS, which has been operating for more than 50 years, provides essential educational services for children with severe physical disabilities. The tournament, which focuses on sportsmanship, is being sponsored by the Lisa Beth Gerstman Foundation (LBGF). The event, expected to attract over 500 people and about 100 disabled athletes, is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m., with the last match starting at 2:30 p.m.

The tournament will see teams participating from the HVS Cubbies and Cougars as well as a team from the Westchester School for Special Children. The top teams will be recognized at the end of the day’s events.

“The Lisa Beth Gerstman Foundation is a wonderful organization that is truly committed to helping children with physical challenges. We are proud to have them on board for this event. Everyone on Long Island is invited to attend to support the players,” said Patrice Kuntzler, the Executive Director of the HVS.

“Events such as the basketball tournament allow the children at the school and those from other participating schools to interact and compete,” said Dan Gerstman, co-founder of the LBGF. “The participants in this tournament have worked very hard in preparation, and we are very pleased that our organization is sponsoring this event and assisting all of those involved to make it successful. The accomplishments of these athletes are remarkable, and we are looking forward to a number of exciting games,” he added.

The LBGF is a nonprofit organization that partners with existing accredited camps in New York and the Northeast region to afford children with physical disabilities the opportunity to enjoy summer camp in integrated environments. Since its inception in 2003, the Foundation has been opening up doors that were previously closed to these special children by establishing several camp programs in the New York Metropolitan area and on Long Island, including several in the YMCA of Greater New York. Its first program was introduced at the Cross Island YMCA in Bellerose.

For information about the Henry Viscardi School and the annual basketball tournament call (516) 465-1592. Additional information about the school can be found at www.hvs.k12.ny.us. Information regarding the Lisa Beth Gerstman Foundation can be found at www.lisabethgerstman.org.

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