Therapeutic Skating Program Students Honored by Local Hero

Great Neck native Sarah Hughes returned home Tuesday to honor a group of local students for their participation in a therapeutic ice skating program that is succeeding at providing an outlet of opportunity on the ice.

The 2002 Olympic figure skating gold medalist said she was extremely happy to be able to return to her hometown for the event. Fresh from a New York City press conference earlier in the day, Hughes was on the ice at the Andrew Stergiopoulos rink to skate with group members and hand out awards. 

"A lot of times there are events that I want to be a part of but I'm out of town and I'm not able to come," said Hughes. "This was extra special because not only is this event in the community where I grew up but these kids go to the same school that I went to." 

Hughes said she enjoys seeing the program reach out to a wide range of kids who wouldn't otherwise have the opportunity to learn how to skate.

The Great Neck Park District, in partnership with the Great Neck School District and the Great Neck Figure Skating Club, developed the program to allow students with special needs from Great Neck North Middle and High Schools a challenging, on-ice method to work on balance and coordination skills.

"It's a great adjunct to regular physical therapy," said Claudia Sersanti, coach of the therapeutic skating program. 

Superintendent of Schools Thomas Dolan said it's phenominal that the Great Neck Park District and school district are able provide such a level of opportunity for kids. 

"And by our kids, I mean our Great Neck kids kids," said Dolan, on hand for the event. "All you have to do is take a look at their faces and you will know the value of it."