Special Spectators Weblog: Working To Create Magical Days For Seriously Ill Children

We Want to Hear from You - Part Two

2009-07-06T21:30:00.002-05:00

Second in a series

If you've ever spent a good portion of a Saturday at a college football stadium, you know the tailgate party is almost as important as the game. Depending on the team you follow, it actually may be more important (and enjoyable) than what's happening on the field.

When Special Spectators volunteers plan our game day events for seriously-ill children and their families, more time is spent designing the tailgate party than any other aspect of the day. Tents, tables, chairs, grills and other supplies have to be coordinated. Visits by student-athletes, cheerleaders, mascots and the marching band have to be scheduled. And of course, the menu must be planned.

Food can make or break the tailgate party. Okay, many of us would say the beverages can make or break the tailgate, but remember, our tailgates are G-rated for the kids. Hamburgers and hot dogs are always reliable standards, but we want to score a culinary touchdown. Plus, don't these kids deserve something better than ground scraps squeezed into a casing?

So, we turn to you - the serious tailgate professionals to ask:

What are your favorite tailgate recipes?

We Want to Hear From You - Part One

2009-06-29T19:35:00.007-05:00

First in a series

As Special Spectators prepares to bring seriously-ill children to college football games this season, we thought we'd ask passionate fans for their insight. We constantly strive to improve our game day events and the overall experience for these kids and who better to help us than the expert fan?

Our first question to you is this:

What stadium has the best atmosphere and why?

Happy Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-22T20:33:00.004-05:00

On behalf of Special Spectators and our volunteers, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.

Traditionally this holiday honors those who died while serving in our country's military. During this time, however, I can't help but think of those who are no longer with us that Special Spectators had the honor to meet and serve. Their memory inspires us and motivates us to constantly build Special Spectators so that we can reach more seriously-ill children and families.

Most of you recently became fans of our facebook page - THANK YOU! Please take a moment during this three day weekend, to invite just 10 friends to become a fan. As many of you know, we rely heavily on word of mouth to raise awareness and if EVERYONE could take a moment to share Special Spectators with 10 friends, the impact to the organization and more importantly, to the life of a seriously-ill child would be tremendous.

All the best,

Blake Rockwell
Executive Director

The Special Spectators Classifieds - Help Wanted

2009-05-06T20:54:00.004-05:00

Over the last couple weeks, the Special Spectators blog has highlighted the different aspects of the typical game day event, its impact on the seriously-ill children and families who attend and what we've accomplished over the last seven seasons. Since 2002, we've hosted almost 5,500 patients, parents and siblings at about 165 games. We've done this at a total cost to the organization of only $85,000. Given our limited resources and no paid staff, we're proud of what we've accomplished, but now it's time to focus on the future and the 2009 college football season.

In order to continue our dramatic growth, we are actively recruiting new volunteers to serve in several capacities including:

Public/Media Relations
Social Media
Web Design
Multimedia
Mobile Technology
Legal
Fundraising
Volunteer Coordination
Game Day Event Planning
Game Day Event Volunteers
Sponsorships
Business Development

If you have experience in any of these areas listed and are excited by the opportunity to provide a magical day for seriously-ill children and their families, please consider becoming a Special Spectators volunteer. Maybe you've just graduated from college and the current economic climate has made it difficult to find a job or your a talented professional who has recently been laid-off and are looking to volunteer your time, we want you to join us

This is a great opportunity for exposure as millions of fans each year have been introduced to Special Spectators. We've been featured on ESPN, ESPN.com, FSN, Delta Airlines in-flight entertainment and local coverage in markets such as Philadelphia, Chicago, Denver, Dallas, Orlando, Cleveland, Tucson and many more.

We're passionate about Special Spectators, we have a great time and you'll be amazed how spending a day at football game can impact these children and their families. To learn more, contact Blake Rockwell at Blake@SpecialSpectators.org.

Special Spectators - The Impact Part II

2009-05-01T07:30:00.003-05:00

Our previous post shared quotes from patients and parents on the impact of attending a Special Spectators event. But the attendees are not the only ones touched by our organization. Student-athletes, fans, coaches and hospital staff also see the benefit from their involvement. Here's what they had to say about Special Spectators:

“I can tell you, quite certainly, that the children and their families had a terrific day away from the usual cares and worries of their weeks.

The diagnosis of cancer and other serious blood disorders is a devastating moment and a long journey for all concerned, and events such as Special Spectators really are important ways in which families cope with the enormous demands that are placed upon them.” Mark Musselman, M.D.

“If we can do one little part to help their life be a little better or to make one night be a very enjoyable night and a lasting memory for not only the young people, but also the families, that’s what college football is all about.” Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern

"I first learned about Special Spectators in 2004 and since then I've had a great experience, a lot of fun meeting all the children, having them come by the office, come by the facility, before games, after games. Really a fun group of kids to be around and it really lightens your heart and lets you keep things in perspective. It's exciting to show them around and see the excitement they have being around your team." Head Coach Bob Stoops, University of Oklahoma

“It was 9:15 and we had the day off from school and I was just like, “Man, I wish I didn’t have to get up this early. But then you come in (to the hospital) and see the smiles on their faces.

We went into one room and her heart monitor started going off. Her heart rate jumped like that when we walked into that room. That’s one of the things I’ll take away from this day . . .” B.H. Student-Athlete

Special Spectators - The Impact

2009-04-28T08:14:00.009-05:00

Fifth entry in a series on the Special Spectators game day event

Over the past week, we've shared the excitement and fun that goes into a Special Spectators game day event for seriously-ill children. If you've followed our blog, you know the day consists of tailgate parties complete with visits by mascots, marching bands, cheerleaders and athletes. We also include locker room tours to meet players and coaches, visits to the press box and other areas of the stadium that are off limits to fans. And of course, watching the game where, during a timeout, the kids will walk on the field to receive a standing ovation from the fans.

Since 2002, we've hosted about 165 of these events for approximately 5,500 patients, parents and siblings and the impact on these attendees is extremely powerful. But you don't have to take our word for it. Read these quotes from the kids and parents who have experienced being a Special Spectator.

"It was great to be able to tell your little boy something like this after what he’s been through. Something like this isn’t anything I could’ve pulled off on my own. To have someone step in and provide us with an opportunity like this is pretty special." D.R. - Father

"I got the surgery this week and that is the major thing because I’m in pain all the time. You can’t really go anywhere when your leg is just there and you’re in a wheelchair. You don’t want to go out because people do stare at you. But then it’s like, Oh, I’m going to this game. I’m going to have some fun. I’m gong to be with the people I want to be with. I’m going to enjoy something that I already like to do." L.T. - Patient

"My son has suffered so and I have cried a million tears, but the joy that you gave these children with Special Spectators will take away some to those sad times. We lay at night talking about the roar the crowd made for those four little heroes who stood on that OU field. Brian’s eyes light up when he tells others about the limo ride and all the special things that happened that night. To those who made it happen, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the joy you brought to these kids who so deserve it." E.B. - Mother

"I wanted you to know what an incredible time he (and his dad) had! He called me every 30 minutes and started our conversation with, “Mom, you aren’t going to believe this!” He had such a great time. Thank you for giving him the opportunity of a lifetime. Not only did Tanner love meeting the coach and the players, he loved the cheerleaders, the sounds, the colors, the whole thing.

Again thank you. What you are doing for these kids will not only give them lasting memories, but boost their self esteem. Tanner loved showing his classmates his memorabilia and pictures. And what an opportunity to be seen on TV." P.J. - Mother

"This was really great. Saturday's game was the first time we've been out as a family, other than holidays and birthdays, in the last three years" L.R. - Mother

The Making of a Special Spectators Game Day Event: The Game Experience

2009-04-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Fourth in a series on the Special Spectators game day events

This is what every kid and family member waits for...THE GAME!

The game experience is the most exciting part of the day for the children. From kickoff to the final whistle, the atmosphere is filled with excitement.

On-Field Introduction:

At many of our events, the Special Spectators are invited onto the field for an introduction to the crowd. The on-field introduction is the most powerful and memorable of all the activities. At some universities, as many as 107,000 fans have given these children a standing ovation for the courage they show from day-to-day.

Here you see several different photographs taken of the halftime or in-game introduction. Some of the more memorable on-field moments have occurred at the University of Tennessee, where 107,000 fans gave the Special Spectators a standing ovation. Others include the University of Colorado and the University of Oklahoma among others.

The Making of a Special Spectators Game Day Event: The Pre-Game

2009-04-25T00:05:00.000-05:00

Third in a series on Special Spectators events

Once the tailgate is finished, the children start the real fun! At many events, the Special Spectators are given access to a game day experience that the average fan can only imagine. This includes tours of the locker room before the game, pre-game activities around the stadium, visits to the field, and more! To the right you see a picture of the University of Georgia mascot, Hairy. The three children at the UGA game in 2006 had the opportunity to get down on the field before the game and take pictures with the mascot!

At Georgia Tech, children had the opportunity to not only participate in the Yellow Jacket Walk, a walk that the football team makes on its way from the buses to the locker room, but kids also had the opportunity to take photographs with the cheerleaders and with Buzz the Yellow Jacket.

Following the photo shoot, the kids were introduced to the crowd and proceeded to their seats which were donated by Georgia Tech. The seats were located in one of the University's premium skyboxes and the kids had a wonderful time!

Also included in pre-game activities are locker room visits. The University of Oklahoma puts on a wonderful event and the children many times gain access to the locker room before the game. In addition, Coach Bob Stoops requests private time with the children in his office. On the right you see a picture of Special Spectators sitting with Coach Stoops in his office. What a tremendous opportunity for the kids-most fans would do anything to have that chance to meet Coach Stoops!

Finally, at many Special Spectators events, the children are able to get up-close to the field right up to the kickoff and after. At left you see two young children enjoying their time inside the hedges at the University of Georgia, just moments before kickoff.

The Making of a Special Spectators Game Day Event: The Tailgate Party

2009-04-24T09:15:00.000-05:00

Second in a series

This blog entry is intended to give the reader a better idea and understanding of what we mean when we say that we are putting on a "Special Spectators Game Day Event".

Special Spectators Game Day Events are some of the most memorable and exciting days in the lives of the seriously ill children that we serve. Here we describe what a gameday event looks like from start to finish.

Tailgate Party:

The tailgate party usually starts about 2 and 1/2 hours before kickoff. In many cases, our food is donated by one of our corprate partners or by volunteers. The children NEVER have to pay for any of the food or tailgate experiences that they have. Tailgates are free to ALL children and their family members. And the food is just the beginning!

At many of the tailgating events student-athletes from other sports come to participate in the festivities! To the left is a photograph of the tent that is put together at the University of Illinois. The U of I puts on a great event for a large group of children every fall. We've had Illini wrestlers, basketball players, cheerleaders, and even the marching band particpate in the tailgate events!

Above and to the right you see a picture of David Thompson of the Northwestern Wildcats signing autographs for the children at the tailgating party. And to the left is a photograph of the University of Illinois Marching Illini, who came to the Special Spectators tent specifically to play songs for the children. It was an amazing experience for everyone involved, including the children, families, volunteers, and the Marching Illini!

The University of Colorado football team helped make the event in Boulder an amazing one! The players came to the tailgate party to visit the children and give them all "Crocs" shoes. They sang the Colorado fight songs for the children and took group photos with everyone. To the right is a photograph of the Colorado football team with the Special Spectators at the event that day!

Special Spectators - The Inspiration

2009-04-23T19:23:00.005-05:00

The first in a series of entries on Special Spectators

In the mid-1990's, I spent three hours each Thursday night volunteering at Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago. This experience had a profound impact on my life. I met incredibly courageous and inspiring patients and parents who, after an exhausting day at work, would muster the energy and enthusiasm to spend several hours playing, reading and caring for their sick child. I also met unstoppable and devoted doctors, nurses, child life specialists and fellow volunteers, many of whom I'm proud to say are still my friends today. All of these people are still etched in my memory.

As a sports fan, this experience also impacted me in a different way. I was surprised to learn that many of the patients I met were big sports fans too. Early in my volunteering, I was silly to think that these youngsters couldn't possibly enjoy sports since their illnesses limited or prevented them from participating in athletics. I couldn't have been more mistaken. For many, their passion for sports exceeded that of many healthy children I knew.

I was in for another surprise. Very few of these patients had ever attended a game. Their exposure to sports was limited to video games and what they watched on TV.

I thought to myself, it would be really cool to not just take these kids to a game, but make them a part of a game. Provide the children with the feeling of being a member of a team with tens of thousands of fans cheering for them and a day filled with special surprises and experiences in and around the stadium that are not available to the average fan.

And what could be better than introducing these youngsters to the color, pagentry, sights and sounds of college football?

Sam I Am

2008-12-13T20:25:00.007-06:00

Congratulations to Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, the 2008 Heisman Trophy winner. Sam was very popular among the patients who attended the Special Spectators event at OU. He is a proven winner, on and off the field.

Northwestern University Hosts Special Spectators

2007-09-21T12:13:00.001-05:00

Last weekend, Northwestern University raised the bar for Special Spectators events. Over 30 children and family members attended one of the best Special Spectators events from start to finish that have been put on since 2002.

The event started with a tailgate party where children were able to paint their faces and enjoy some great tailgate food under the cool autumn sky. The kids were joined at their tailgate by a group of former Northwestern football players, including Doug Szymul and a host of others. The tailgaters enjoyed a 'Baggo' tournament as well.

After the tailgate, the group traveled to the stadium where they were able to get a pre-game locker room tour hosted by several football players. After the tour, Coach Fitz came to meet the group as the team entered the stadium. In between, the kids even got to visit the NU broadcast booth where Dave Eanet treated the guests to a crash course in broadcasting!

The families enjoyed the entire evening, including the game even though the Wildcats lost a heartbreaker to the Blue Devils.

While the Wildcats lost a tough game on Saturday, everyone associated with the event came out winners - including the Wildcats. Thanks to Northwestern University for leading the charge and raising the bar for its peer schools to match the level of excellence provided for these Special Spectators.

Indiana University Hosts Special Spectators on the 15th

2007-09-21T12:05:00.000-05:00

Indiana University hosted over 20 Special Spectators at last week's game versus Akron. The day started with children arriving for the pre-game Special Spectators tailgate party hosted by the Indiana University Alumni Association.

The children were greeted at the tailgate party by several student-athletes including members of the cheerleading squad and the baseball team. One lucky girl was able to climb to the top of a cheerleader pyramid!

From the tailgate, the children and their families went to the game and watched as Indiana improved to 3 - 0 with their defeat of Akron.

Thanks to IU for putting on a great event and making it a special day for our Special Spectators!

Oklahoma Sooners make some Special Spectators feel like rock stars

2007-09-21T11:50:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, the OU football team hosted 5 children from a local children's hospital for the home football game versus ***. The event was planned as part of Special Spectators' annual event at OU - one of the premier Special Spectators events that are put on across the country.

The children enjoyed limousine rides to the game, a pre-game tailgate party, a pre-game tour of the OU locker room and chats with current players. After the tour, the children were escorted to a room where very few but lucky people ever get to go - Coach Stoops' office. Coach Stoops spends time with the youngsters each year at the OU event in a private meeting in his coach's office. He is one of the most active head coaches with Special Spectators and donates a lot of his time and service to help make this day a great and memorable one for the children.

After meeting with Coach, the kids left for the game where they watched Oklahoma defeat Utah State 54 - 3. During the game, the children were guided down onto the field where they were introduced to the crowd of over 80,000 by the public address announcer. The children waved to the crowd from the field and were recognized by the crowd with a standing ovation. At this moment, the crowd recognized the true heroes on the field that day.

Thanks again to the University of Oklahoma for putting on such an outstanding event for these little champions!

Purdue Hosts its 1st Annual Special Spectators Event

2007-09-11T12:59:00.000-05:00

Purdue Pete and the Purdue Boilermakers football team hosted 25 seriously ill children and family members at this past weekend's home football game against Eastern Illinois.

The Boilers handled Eastern Illinois easily, defeating the Panthers 52-6.

The children enjoyed a delicious tailgate party hosted before the game and thoroughly enjoyed themselves at the game.

Thanks to Purdue University and the Boilers Athletic Department for making the event a success. This is the first annual trip to Purdue for Special Spectators, and Purdue marks the 4th Big Ten university to join the Special Spectators list of programs. Other Big Ten universities are: Illinois, Northwestern, and Indiana.

If you would like more information on Special Spectators or would like to know how you can volunteer or donate, please visit: www.SpecialSpectators.org.

Fresno State Hosts Special Spectators on September 1st Home Game

2007-09-11T12:38:00.000-05:00

On September 1, Fresno State treated 100 seriously ill children and family members to a magical day at the home football game. The children were able to enjoy a wonderful tailgate party where former FSU start David Carr stopped by to sign autogrpahs for the kids. In addition to the current NFL star, the men's and women's basketball teams and the volleyball team visited the tailgate and spent time with the children.

In addition to the tailgate, the children and family members attended the game where Fresno State defeated Sacramento State 24-3.

If you would like more information on Special Spectators or if you would like to volunteer or donate, please visit our website at: www.SpecialSpectators.org

The University of Illinois Hosts Special Spectators

2007-09-11T11:22:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday, the University of Illinois hosted more than one dozen families from Carle Hospital at a Fighting Illini football game. The day was planned and put together by Special Spectators and various members of the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) at the University of Illinois.

The children enjoyed a delicious tailgate meal provided by Hideway Catering in Champaign. The event was sponsored by the CME Group, who brought a van load of volunteers to help out with face painting for the children, cornhole, event preparation and teardown, and more.

Even thought it rained off and on throughout the day, the families were able to enjoy the game and the 21-0 win by the Illini versus Western Illinois. The game was close early, but the Illini pulled away late in the game and secured the win.

This marks the 5th time that the University of Illinois has hosted a Special Spectators event at a football game. Only Arizona has hosted more events (6). Special Spectators and the families are grateful for the support given by the University.

This fall, the men's basketball team will become only the third men's basketball program in the nation to host a Special Spectators event at the Orange and Blue Scrimmage in October. Stay tuned for more details.

If you would like to donate or volunteer with Special Spectators, please vist our home page at: www.SpecialSpectators.org

In Memory of Kourtlyn Uzoma

2007-08-24T09:52:00.000-05:00

Special Spectators is sad to announce that a very dear friend of ours passed away over the weekend on Saturday, August 11. Kourtlyn participated in our Special Spectators event at the University of Oklahoma in 2006.

Miami (FL) Schedules Game Day Event

2007-08-02T15:22:00.000-05:00

The University of Miami (FL) has recently scheduled a Special Spectators event for Saturday, September 29. The Hurricanes will host Duke. Miami has been a great partner for Special Spectators and we look forward to building the tradition. The Hurricanes are one of 7 schools from the ACC to participate in Special Spectators events. The others include: Maryland, Florida State, Boston College, North Carolina State, Virginia, and Georgia Tech. Thank you to the Hurricanes for your support!

Akron to Host Special Spectators Event on Sept. 22

2007-08-02T14:46:00.000-05:00

The University of Akron will host a Special Spectators event on September 22 vs. Kent State. Akron has been a proud partner of Special Spectators since 2004. In that span, Akron and Special Spectators have worked together to create magical game day events for more than 100 seriously ill children. Akron was also featured in ESPN's "Cold Pizza", seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqdg4UDjlVY. Thank you to Akron for supporting Special Specatators, and keep an eye out on our blog for more updates.

Kansas Nails Down Special Spectators Event Date

2007-08-02T14:37:00.000-05:00

Kansas University has scheduled a Special Spectators event on September 22. The Jayhawks have worked with Special Spectators before to create magical game day events for seriously ill children in the Lawrence rea. We're looking forward to a great game day event this year and stay tuned for more news!

Oklahoma Sets Date for Special Spectators

2007-08-02T14:14:00.000-05:00

The University of Oklahoma has picked a date for its annual Special Spectators event. Every year, seriously ill children from hospitals close to Norman get the opportunity of a lifetime on a fall Saturday. Children enjoy locker room visits, autographs, a personal visit to Coach Stoops' office, a great tailgate, on-field access and introductions, and pictures with players, coaches, and cheerleaders! Oklahoma puts on an outstanding event, and they have chosen this year's event to be held on September 15. Thanks to OU for putting on such a great event and stay tuned for the results!

NC State Schedules Special Spectators Event

2007-08-02T14:10:00.001-05:00

North Carolina State University has scheduled its 2nd Special Spectators event for Saturday, September 15. NC State also hosted a Special Spectators event in 2005 for some seriously ill children in the RTP area. Thank you to the Wolfpack for your generosity and support! Keep an eye out on this blog for updates and pictures from the event!

Northwestern Pencils In September 15 Special Spectators Event

2007-08-02T13:33:00.000-05:00

Northwestern University and Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald have scheduled a magical game day event for seriously ill children in the Chicago area. The event will consist of pre-game fun such as a tailgate and an opportunity to meet some of the players and coaches. Former NU players will be pitching in at the tailgate to volunteer and play around with the children. Northwestern has put on a great event every year and Coach Fitz and the rest of the Northwestern football program have been extremely generous in giving their time to Special Spectators. This year's event will be held on September 15. More details to follow. Thanks to Northwestern University for your support!

Georgia Tech Schedules Special Spectators Event

2007-08-02T13:13:00.000-05:00

Georgia Tech has scheduled its second annual Special Spectators event for its game against Samford on September 8. Kickoff for the game is scheduled for 1:30 PM ET. At last year's event, the children had a wonderful time. They got to participate in the "Yellow Jacket Walk"; they were able to enjoy a great tailgate meal before the game; they had special access to the field where they received a pre-game announcement in front of a sellout crowd vs. Maryland, and they got to take some great photographs with Buzz and the cheerleading squad! The children also enjoyed the game from one of the great suites provided by the university. Thank you to Georgia Tech for your support!