Rutgers football players give back for Special Olympics

Rutgers’ new quarterback got his first opportunity to partake in a cherished tradition.

Athan Kaliakmanis was one of 45 Rutgers football players on hand to support, cheer and embolden the athletes of Special Olympics New Jersey, taking part in the event’s opening ceremony Friday night at The College of New Jersey in Ewing.

“This is something that gives me a lot of perspective and humbles me,” Kaliakmanis said. “I’m just really grateful that I’m here. I think it’s a blessing.”

Kaliakmanis, a junior quarterback, and his brother, Dino, were several newcomers taking part in the event for the first time after transferring to Rutgers from the University of Minnesota this winter. On Friday, they got their first chance to partake in a tradition that continues to bring smiles to the faces of all involved.

“One of the blessings about football is being able to do things like this,” Kaliakmanis, who was named the team’s starting quarterback after a successful spring camp said.

The Rutgers players spread out across campus chatting up the Olympians prior to their march into the football stadium, taking photos, handing out high-fives, wishing everyone good luck and sharing a collective understanding of the long journey they took to prepare for these moments. They’ll return for the next two days for different events and sports.

“I’m truly grateful,” said senior offensive lineman Hollin Pierce. “I’ve been coming here since my sophomore year. It’s just an awesome experience. All of the guys on the team, we just love it.”

Pierce, a Trenton Central graduate, proceeded into the ceremony with athletes from Mercer County. Some marveled at his size and others smiled widely as they marched into the stadium.

“I just really love seeing the smiles on their faces,” Pierce said. “They love to compete. It’s just sheer joy, and they’re just happy to see us as well. It’s just amazing to be supporting them.”

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.

Patrick Lanni may be reached at planni@njadvancemedia.com.