From a classroom setting to the basketball court, student athletes are participating in the Special Olympics New York Unified games.

On the sidelines of a game between West Irondequoit and Webster Schroeder, Christine Riesenberger cheered for her son.

"This opportunity has certainly helped him grow as a person because he's able to be around typically developing peers and the interactions that he has with them are so positive,” she said.

For these athletes, given the chance to play a varsity sport can be a life-changing experience.

"I think you see students kind of in their element more when they get to play sports and do extracurricular activities. It's not as structured of a setting so you get to see them really shine and come out with their talents and abilities,” said West Irondequoit Coach Lauren Seeley.

And each student brings their own skills to the court.

"Everyone loves it. I see a smile on everyone's face every time I'm here. If I'm having a bad day, this makes me feel better to come here and practice our games at the end of the day,” said athlete Michael Walther.

Program coordinators believe creating a climate of inclusion, respect, and dignity for all students will help build life skills for the future.

"To be able to participate in a varsity sport is an amazing opportunity for them and I think anyone who comes to the games sees that. They see how much fun these kids are having. They see the relationships they're developing with their teammates, and it's just an incredible thing to watch,” said Seeley.

It’s the smiles on and off the court that remind Christine Riesenberger her child is a part of something special.

"He loves to make connections with people. I wouldn't say he's the most athletic kid out there but he certainly does try. And he wants to belong and he wants to have the same opportunities that all the other kids have,” said Riesenberger.