The Fourth Annual Victory Games, held on June 20 at Victory Field in Forest Park, brought together over 300 participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities for a vibrant day of sports, unity, and celebration. Organized by WellLife Network, the event featured adaptive athletic competitions such as bean bag toss, disc throws, wheelchair races, and volleyball. With an Olympic-style opening ceremony, spirited contests, and enthusiastic cheering from spectators, the gathering highlighted the importance of community support and personal empowerment. Attendees included clients, staff, and supporters from across New York City and Long Island, all reveling in a shared experience of joy and inclusion.

Event Details: A Day of Unity and Empowerment

In the heart of Forest Park’s Victory Field, under the warm June sun, athletes of all abilities came together to celebrate the Fourth Annual Victory Games. Hosted by WellLife Network, this inclusive sporting event welcomed more than 300 participants from Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Long Island, many of whom are enrolled in the organization’s day programs or residential services. The festivities kicked off with a grand entrance led by a torch bearer, followed by a lively opening ceremony that set the tone for a joyful day ahead.

A diverse lineup of therapeutic recreational activities filled the schedule, including wheelchair races, softball throws, and friendly volleyball matches. Smiles were abundant as competitors proudly displayed their skills, cheered on by staff and family members. Among the standout groups was the “Born to Win” program, which supports older adults with disabilities—some in their 70s and 80s—who showed incredible enthusiasm and determination throughout the games.

Leadership from WellLife Network, including CEO Sherry Tucker and Vice President Nadia Hrvatin, expressed pride in the growth and impact of the event since its inception in 2019. Held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Victory Field in Woodhaven, the games concluded with medal ceremonies, group photos, and countless moments of laughter, reinforcing the nonprofit’s mission of fostering wellness, inclusion, and empowerment.

The Victory Games exemplify the transformative power of community and collective spirit. As a journalist observing this event, it became clear that beyond the excitement of competition lies a deeper message—one that champions dignity, visibility, and belonging for individuals often overlooked in mainstream society. Events like these do more than entertain; they educate and inspire both participants and onlookers to embrace diversity and advocate for inclusive spaces in everyday life. For the athletes, staff, and families involved, the games are not just a one-day affair but a symbol of ongoing progress toward a more compassionate and integrated world.