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James and Monica Maniscalco began the special-needs sports program in 2012, to provide opportunities for kids like their daughter, who's now 11. She has a rare chromosome abnormality. The Angels program began with soccer, and lacrosse and cheer were added this spring.
The spring season is midway through, and registration for the fall season will likely be in early August, Monica Maniscalco said. The season will probably begin toward the end of September.
All three sports have an eight-week program, with Saturday sessions. The program fee depends on fundraising and vendor costs, but will likely be $40.
soccer -- In these hour-long sessions, kids will learn soccer fundamentals. Students from the Saddle Brook High School boys and girls soccer teams help teach these basic skills. "The kids participate in scrimmages, drills and most of all have fun in a non-competitive environment," organizers note. The program fee includes a soccer ball, shin guards and a t-shirt.
lacrosse -- In these hour-long sessions, kids will learn the basics of lacrosse. Students from the high school boys and girls lacrosse teams assist here, too. The drills and scrimmages have been modified to suit the special needs of the players. The program fee includes a fiddle stick, balls and a t-shirt.
cheerleading -- This program will teach cheerleading basics, and it runs simultaneously with the lacrosse program. Experiences cheer coaches and cheerleaders teach the kids various cheers. Participants will cheer for the lacrosse players. The program fee includes a cheer uniform, pom poms and a cheer bow.
For each program, all participants and coaches partake in the end-of-season pizza party.
Monica Maniscalco wanted to give a special thanks to the volunteers. "Without volunteers from Saddle Brook High School and their coaches, this program would not be what it is." She also wanted to recognize Ms. Terry and her dog Pat, who assists by calming and engaging players.
Visit the Angels' new website here.
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