Craig Clamm, a resident at Bradford IRA recently had the opportunity to not only watch the NY Jets practice but also meet a number of the players as well as Head Coach Rex Ryan.Craig has been a participant with Special Olympics for many years playing a multitude of sports including but not limited to soccer, swimming, softball and weight lifting.Because of his involvement with Special Olympics Craig was granted the opportunity to attend the Jets Meet and Greet.
Craig headed to SUNY Cortland at on Monday August 17th for the full team practice.Upon arrival Craig was directed to the VIP tent with Special Olympians from Onondaga and surrounding counties.Craig received the 2009 Preview, a 200 plus page magazine filled with team information as well as player and coach biographies and statistics.While observing the practice, Jets staff explained to those in attendance what was taking place on the field.Craig frequently commented on the enormous stature of the players and would immediately look up their information using his Preview magazine.
Toward the end of the practice the group was invited onto the field and presented autograph cards.Craig’s excitement quickly grew with the realization that he was about to meet the players.The Jets staff informed us that when the clock ran out after stretching, the team would make their way over to spend time with the visitors and to sign autographs.Craig’s anticipation rose with the rest of the group as he joined in a countdown of the time clock.Craig collected over 40 autographs including Head Coach Rex Ryan, with whom he had his photograph taken. Craig was also photographed with all the Special Olympians in attendance. Craig had a great time visiting the players and comparing his height to theirs. Many of the Jets members have prominent tattoos that Craig asked about.Craig told the players his desire to get two tattoos; they thought that was great and encouraged Craig to “go for it” if that’s what he likes.
Members of the Jets team asked Craig as well as the other Olympians about the sports they were involved in. Craig listed off his favorites and was asked to show some moves.Craig showed a soccer move and demonstrated proper power lifting techniques.The Jets player who was talking with Craig about power lifting was quite impressed with the amount of weight he can lift (He “benches” 145lbs and “dead lifts” 395lbs.).
When the team headed for the locker room, Craig headed back to Syracuse. During the ride home Craig reiterated his amazement at the massiveness of the players, reviewed the photographs and remarked how much fun he had at the practice.Upon arriving back at his home Craig shared his 2009 Preview magazine with his housemates and staff while recalling and sharing the highlights of his day.
