Hoops 4 Inclusion
More than a Game
Hoops 4 Inclusion started as a community basketball fundraiser, but it quickly became something more.
On April 10, 2026, the Saugerties community came together for a night of connection and inclusion. Team In Flight, made up of staff, individuals we support, and members of our Ulster Tigers Special Olympics basketball team, faced off against a Community Team in a fun, high-energy match.
Hoops 4 Inclusion raised nearly $3,000 to support In Flight's Special Olympics programs, helping expand opportunities for athletes and grow inclusive recreation programming across our organization and community.
We are incredibly grateful to our Community Team participants who helped make the night possible: Meg Columbia-Walsh of MoveIN Design, presenting sponsor; the Saugerties Police Department; Wraparound Services staff, high school student Kourtney Dragon; and Ulster County Legislature Jason Kovacs. Their involvement helped create a meaningful and memorable evening for everyone involved.
While the game itself brought excitement, the true impact of the night was felt in the stands and on the court. Families, friends, and community members coming together in support of inclusion and connection.
Thank You to Our Hoops 4 Inclusion Sponsors!
Archtop Fiber
J. Mullen and Sons
Saugerties Kiwanis Club
The Ulster Tigers
The Ulster Tigers are more than a basketball team. They represent growth, confidence, and opportunity.
This team has become a turning point for many in their journey. Individuals build skills, form connections, and gain confidence that carries into everyday life. Practices focus not only on basketball, but on teamwork, communication, and personal growth.
Through their dedication, the Ulster Tigers continue to grow as athletes and individuals, creating a space where they can challenge themselves and be a part of a team. Where they gain proud in their hard work and dedication, feel support and seen, and capable of more.
Learn more about how the Ulster Tigers began.
Looking Ahead
Basketball is just the beginning.
In Flight is committed to expanding its Special Olympics programming to include additional sports like softball, track & field, bowling, golf, and flag football. Creating even more opportunities for individuals we support, we can offer fitness clinics that build confidence and skills. With continued community support, we can grow this program and reach more athletes ready to participate, compete, and thrive.
Be Part of What Comes Next
Hoops 4 Inclusion showed what's possible when a community comes together. With our community's continued support of In Flight's Special Olympic program, more individuals can find their passion in sports and be recognized by their athletic talents, rather than having an intellectual or developmental disability.
When you help us expand our athletes opportunities, you will receive a limited addition basketball card of our Ulster Tigers team; one of twelve you can collect. Want to collect them all? Continue your support throughout the year and collect a new member each time!
