Goodwill Games

Overview

The Winter Goodwill Games, in conjunction with the Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA), the Empire State Games and the New York Lottery chartered the Winter Achievers program -- a statewide youth initiative designed to recognize and reward outstanding young citizen-athletes at the first-ever Winter Goodwill Games. The program, a statewide essay contest, encouraged New York sixth, seventh and eighth graders to share their personal experiences and achievements as participants in sports. From team managers, to team captains, to determined sports enthusiasts, all were encouraged to explain how sports have played a positive role in their life. The program was a natural extension of the Goodwill Games mission, which recognizes that sports play a valuable role in personal character development and in the community.

The response to the contest was overwhelming, as organizers received more than 4,000 entries in a three-week period. Prizes were awarded to ten winners, with each winning student's school receiving a computer technology package. All ten Winter Achievers were awarded a laptop computer and printer, a trip to the Winter Goodwill Games, and a commemorative Winter Achievers sweat suit. Winners were announced during a series of regional press conferences and winter sports clinics held at each of the winners' schools. Winners were also featured in USA Today and on various Time Warner Cable affiliates.

While in Lake Placid for the inaugural Winter Goodwill Games, the Winter Achievers took part in the Games' Opening Celebration and received tickets to all Winter Goodwill Games events, highlighted by a reception with Goodwill Games founder and Time Warner Vice Chairman R.E. Turner, Time Warner Chairman and CEO Gerald Levin, New York Governor George Pataki, Turner Sports President Mark Lazarus, Goodwill Games President Mike Plant, ORDA President and CEO Ted Blazer and Director of the New York State Lottery Margaret DeFrancisco.

Back To Top