ECHL: Special Olympics Skating Camp Brings Smiles

CUMMING, Ga. — On Sunday morning, the ice at The Ice in Cumming came alive with laughter, smiles, and a sense of community that stretched far beyond the boards. The Special Olympics skating camp, led by 16-year-old Deerfield Academy student and lifelong hockey player Grey Altemeyer, showcased months of planning, preparation, and passion. What unfolded was not just a well-run event but a day filled with connection, joy, and memories.

Altemeyer began shaping the Skating Camp in February, secured funding through a Deerfield Academy grant in May, and partnered with Miracle Sk8ters, Sparks Special Olympics, and the Atlanta Gladiators to bring the idea to life. With longtime Gladiator Derek Nesbitt offering guidance and countless volunteers pitching in, the camp ran seamlessly. Participants of all ability levels laced up and took the ice for an hour of skating before gathering for lunch together afterward.

More Than Just Ice Time

For Altemeyer, Sunday marked the realization of a vision he has carried since his early days volunteering with Miracle Sk8ters.

“Now, I would like to present the love and dedication that can be put into a sport, whether that be skating or anything else in life,” he said. “If the hours I have put into this event cause one kid to pick up the sport or simply the ideology of being passionate about a hobby, it will be a complete success.”

That success was certainly visible in every smile, every cheer from volunteers, and every parent watching their child take to the ice. The atmosphere grew even brighter thanks to the presence of Derek Nesbitt and Gladiators forward Connor Galloway, who skated alongside participants, offering encouragement and helping kids find their stride.

Maximus, the Atlanta Gladiators mascot, also made the rounds, drawing laughter, hugs, and fist bumps, and leaving a trail of happy kids wherever he went. Several members of the Gladiators’ front office staff joined in as well, showing that support for the event ran through every level of the organization.

A Personal Highlight

One of my favorite moments came when I met a young skater named Jax, who was shivering after his time on the ice. I had an extra jacket with me and offered it to him so he could warm up. He gratefully accepted and then headed right back out to skate again with a big smile on his face.

Later, after the event wrapped up, I caught up with him again. That’s when he asked my name, introduced himself, and quickly turned our small exchange into something more. Jax—bright, curious, and full of questions—took the lead and began interviewing me.

He wanted to know what my job was like, how I helped students, and what it meant to work at a college. His curiosity and thoughtful questions made it clear how much he enjoyed connecting with people that morning. Most of all, the fact that he felt comfortable enough in that space to introduce himself and start a conversation showed just how welcoming the camp’s environment truly was. I walked away with the sense that he had a wonderful time, and I hope that small gesture of lending a jacket created a connection he’ll carry with him.

From Inspiration to Action

The roots of this event trace back to last fall, when Altemeyer attended a Deerfield Academy presentation showcasing student-led grant projects around the globe. Inspired by his peers’ work, he immediately knew he wanted to design something that gave back to his own community.

That decision was built on a foundation laid years earlier. At age four, Altemeyer attended his first Atlanta Gladiators game. By six, he was training with Derek Nesbitt, who has remained a mentor ever since. The lessons Altemeyer absorbed from the Atlanta hockey community fueled his drive to create an event that would pay that support forward.

Sandwiches, Ice Cream, and Smiles

After skating wrapped up, participants and volunteers gathered for sandwiches and ice cream, and the smiles grew even bigger. Kids and families bonded over food just as easily as they had on the ice. Sometimes the simplest touches—a good meal and a sweet treat—become the glue that ties an entire experience together.

Looking Ahead

Though this was only the first year, Altemeyer is already looking forward to what’s next.

“I plan on making this a yearly event, which will recur around the same time next year,” he said.

If Sunday’s camp is any indication, he’s off to an incredible start. With thoughtful planning, community backing, and a clear passion for inclusion, Altemeyer created an event that will be remembered long after the Zamboni made its rounds.

Because at the heart of it all, this is what makes the hockey community special—how people come together to pitch in, support each other, and make sure every child leaves with a smile. For me, that spirit crystallized in one small moment with Jax: a jacket loaned, a name exchanged, a conversation shared. His willingness to introduce himself and ask questions showed just how safe and welcome he felt.

And that is why events like this matter so deeply. They do more than teach kids how to skate—they build confidence, foster inclusion, and create memories that can inspire a lifetime of connection. The fact that this day was organized by a 16-year-old who dedicated months to shaping every detail is a testament to Altemeyer’s commitment and vision. His ability to turn inspiration into action set the stage for an event whose impact will carry far beyond the ice.