A healthy body means a healthy mind.
At Springbrook, supporting the whole person means ensuring that each individual leads a healthy, active lifestyle tailored to their unique interests. From adaptive physical education to our Special Olympics program, we provide a range of opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to get moving and stay strong.
Empowering athletes to thrive on and off the field.
Springbrook Scorpions, Special Olympics Teams, and Therapeutic Supports
Through programs like adaptive physical education and our Special Olympics teams, we offer meaningful opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to stay active and strong. Whether it’s on the soccer field with our celebrated Springbrook Scorpions, on the basketball court during our Annual Springbrook Invitational, or at meets with our growing track and field team, athletes thrive as they pursue their goals. From local tournaments to national competitions, Springbrook is proud to support every athlete in discovering their strength, passion, and potential. Springbrook also offers additional therapeutic supports, including horseback riding. Therapeutic Horse Program Scholarships are available through funding from the Springbrook Foundation. You can find more information and the application here.
Through his exceptional APE instruction, dedicated leadership in Special Olympics, and commitment to coaching numerous athletic teams in our community, Jon has positively impacted the lives of hundreds of students.
Since beginning his career at Springbrook and getting involved with Special Olympics, his goal has always been to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through sports
“Special Olympics not only makes people athletes, but it also gives them a purpose—to grow as a person and as a teammate and to experience a true sense of community and belonging. I could not ask for a better opportunity than to be part of the Special Olympics.”
Jon Philby, Adapted Physical Educator (APE) and Special Olympics Co-Athletic Coordinator at The School at Springbrook
Basketball
Springbrook has proudly served as home to the Scorpions Special Olympics basketball team for over 25 years. Each year, more than 30 athletes 8 years old and older try out for spots on the varsity, junior varsity, or skills teams. A typical season, which runs from January through March, consists of multiple tournaments across New York State, one of which is played on our home court during the Annual Springbrook Invitational.
Soccer
Since 2008, the Springbrook Scorpions soccer team has been on the field. This popular sport continues to grow for athletes eight years old and above, with junior varsity, varsity, and skills teams participating each fall. Still, undoubtedly the most exciting occurrence in Scorpions soccer history occurred in the summer of 2018 when the team represented New York State at the Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle, WA.
Track and Field
As a result of the generosity of the Russel Family, proud Scorpions Sponsors, Springbrook was able to add a track and field team to the list of Special Olympics certified sports that we offer in 2014. This determined group begins preparing for the April–June season in February. The track and field team, which is open to athletes 8 years old and older, travels to various locations to compete in several meets across New York State.