It was a picturesque day for Asphalt Green’s biggest celebration of sports and fitness, Big Swim Big Kick. The sun was shining, and over 900 kids participated in a 25-yard swim meet and soccer festival. Our fundraising benefit, held simultaneously, raised $800,000 to support our free community programs and scholarships.
Rowdy Gaines, NBC Sports commentator and three-time Olympic gold medalists, and NY1 reporter Roger Clark hosted the event, welcoming kids ages 6 to 10 from all over New York City. The event kicked off with a crowd-pleasing performance from synchronized swimmers and elite divers. Special guests included four-time Olympic medalist Maya DiRrado and professional soccer freestyler Skye Cowie.
The first swim race featured children who learned to swim through our free Waterproofing program. They set the tone for the event, and the fun continued on our athletic field, where soccer phenom Skye Cowie and Dynamic Freestyle Soccer Crew put on a show displaying jaw-dropping tricks. All of our special guests squared off for a soccer darts competition, and with valiant efforts from Roger, Maya, our mascot, Shecky, and the freestyle crew, Skye came out victorious. The game was a hit, and there were even a few bullseye shots.
Guests attending the benefit heard speeches from Maya and Skye. Maya shared her favorite moment from the Olympics, Skye performed a trick, and both shared the life-changing impact sports have had on their lives.
A huge thank you goes to all our volunteers and sponsors. The event was successful, in large part, because of your support. Relive the action; see the best photos from the benefit and event. Have photos of your own to share? Tag us on Twitter and Instagram @agkidsnyc. See you next year!