May 30, 2024 — On Saturday, May 18, the Lighthouse Guild Youth Transition Program recently hosted 25 students, ages 14-21, for a goalball clinic at the Trinity School in New York City.

Organized by Lighthouse Guild’s Stephen T. Pearlman Volunteer Center and the New York Association of Blind Athletes (NYABA), the event introduced many of the students to goalball, a sport for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Originating in 1946, goalball is now played competitively in 112 countries. The clinic emphasized that adaptive sports allow everyone to participate and that there are no limits to what blind or visually impaired individuals can achieve.

Jaydan Mitchell, coordinator of youth programs at Lighthouse Guild, highlighted the significance of the event. “Our youth programs aim to empower visually impaired young people with the skills and tools they need to achieve their goals. Goalball levels the playing field and promotes both individual and team strengths while being enjoyable,” says Mitchell.

The Lighthouse Guild Youth Transition Program meets every Saturday, offering guidance, counseling, vocational, and recreational services to students from across NYC. Supported by the Blavatnik Family Foundation, the program focuses on long-term success while fostering friendship, creativity, and physical activity.

Manuel Puma, a player with the NYABA, shared his experience. “Growing up, I struggled to stay active due to my visual impairment, but goalball allowed me to improve and develop my skills,” says Puma. “It's rewarding to give back to the teens in the Lighthouse Guild Youth Skills Program who might share my experiences. I thank the Trinity School and Lighthouse Guild for raising awareness of goalball.”