JERSEY CITY, N.J. – Hudson Lanes played host to a unique competition recently, the Special Olympics North New Jersey Bowling Sectional. Top local athletes from around the area earned their spot to compete in this event. Then, the top athletes from this event then went on to compete on the New Jersey statewide level at Spring Games bowling. This sectional event at Hudson Lanes was run by Special Olympics New Jersey, which recruits volunteers to help provide the best environment for its athletes. A pair of New Jersey City University women's bowling student-athletes – seniors Meagan Raimondo (Woodbridge, N.J./Woodbridge) and Rebecca Kain (Keansburg, N.J./Keansburg) – were two of eight NJCU students to serve as volunteers.
 
"We were very grateful to have student-athletes from NJCU volunteer at our North Bowling Sectional Competition," said Rylee Evans, Volunteer Manager with Special Olympics New Jersey. "The students volunteered as lane managers – this required excellent verbal communication to ensure professional and friendly service to athletes, spectators and other volunteers. The students were very pleasant to work with and did an amazing job on the lanes working with our athletes. Special Olympics New Jersey relies on thousands of volunteers who dedicate their time, energy and enthusiasm to make the world a more accepting and inclusive place. We will happily welcome NJCU students back to volunteer at future events."
 
Raimondo and Kain roles as Lane Managers included fully operating and monitoring two lanes of bowlers each, recording and submitting officially scored, ensuring that all competitors, coaches and spectators adhered to the Special Olympics guidelines and moreover, encouraging the bowlers throughout the competition. As mentioned, they were part of a contingent of NJCU students to volunteer that day. Also playing a large role in the partnership with NJSO was Dr. Lauren Johnson, Assistant Professor in NJCU's Management/Sports Management Department, as well as the Faculty Athletics Representative for NJCU's department of athletics.
 
"Meagan and Rebecca did an amazing job with the Special Olympics athletes," said Dr. Johnson. "They had one of the most efficiently run lanes and were extremely kind, patient and encouraging. You could tell that their experience as student-athletes at NJCU and members of the bowling program gave them the confidence to be incredible leaders during this event."