One Long Island village took advantage of the nice weather for a day dedicated to football and inclusion. The gathering brought players and supporters together around a sport, while keeping a clear focus on welcoming children who are often left on the sidelines.
The event was the work of a group called Game On Autism. The organization held its fifth annual flag football fundraiser, a sign that the day has grown into an established fixture rather than a one-off gathering.
The setting was the park at East Hills. The village park gave families a place to spend the day outdoors, taking part in the football games and the activities organized around them.
This year's edition combined sport with a notable guest. Alongside a full day of football, the event featured a special appearance by former Jets quarterback Jay Fiedler, lending a familiar name to the cause.
Behind the fundraiser is a young organizer. The effort was started by a Roslyn student, Justin Wasserman, whose initiative has now reached its fifth year of bringing people together for the cause.
The goal of the day was clear. The fundraiser aimed to raise money for neurodivergent children, so that they can have a true summer camp experience like their peers, turning the football games into support for those families.
Those who took part described a welcoming atmosphere. People of all ages, adults and children alike, came out to support children with special needs, and one young participant said it was especially fun to play football knowing it was for charity.