As humans, we all want to feel a sense of accomplishment, build friendships at every stage of life, and feel included in activities we enjoy. But those feelings and connections aren’t always easy to achieve for everyone. For individuals with special needs, finding a space that offers all of that can be especially challenging… but what if it didn’t have to be?
Enter the Atlantic County Aces, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving individuals with disabilities throughout South Jersey through sports, social engagement, and community activities. For the past six years, the Aces have created a place where athletes truly belong. The organization not only teaches participants how to play team sports and work with others, but also helps them build independence, set goals, and experience the pride of accomplishment, all while forming meaningful friendships and becoming part of a supportive community.
What began as a small group of 10 athletes playing floor hockey has steadily grown. Thanks to the dedication of President Kathy Turcotte and Vice President Lori McHale, participation continues to increase, and the organization now offers pickleball, bocce ball, and bowling, with hopeful plans to add golf this fall.
Each team within the Atlantic County Aces is part of Special Olympics New Jersey, allowing athletes to compete in full seasons against teams across the state and advance to state games at the conclusion of each season.
The Aces’ floor hockey team recently wrapped up their winter season on a high note. The Special Olympics floor hockey games were held at Stockton University, where the Aces delivered a clean sweep, capturing the championship title.
“Everything they worked on all season just came together at that tournament, and seeing their teamwork was incredible,” Turcotte said. “There wasn’t one standout person; everyone played, and everyone contributed. It was truly great teamwork. They were so excited to win, especially when they received their gold medals.”
The teams practice during the week and compete on weekends, training hard, as their recent success clearly reflects. Many athletes participate in multiple sports through the organization and also take part in social and volunteer outings throughout the community.
Athletes come from a wide area, with many living in Cape May and Atlantic counties, while others travel from different parts of New Jersey just to be involved. Regardless of distance, each athlete looks forward to practices and games, eager to be part of the team.
“Being on this team really does mean everything,” said McHale, whose son Sean plays on several Aces teams. “Sean doesn’t get much socialization now that he’s out of school. He works part time, but there’s not much interaction there. This is his outlet. He gets to spend time with friends and connect with people he wouldn’t normally interact with, and he absolutely loves it.”
McHale shared that beyond sports and friendships, being part of the Aces has had a profound impact on Sean’s personal growth as well.
“A few years ago, he was very introverted, and now he’s so much more social and independent,” she said. “The Aces have really brought him out of his shell.”
That growth isn’t unique to one athlete. Turcotte shared a story about a pair of brothers from Manahawkin who have gained newfound independence through their involvement. The brothers now take ZipRides on their own to and from practice each week, something their sister never expected.
“She arranges the rides, and the guys get in and come down by themselves,” Turcotte said. “Their sister told me they would have never done that before, but they want to be part of the sports so badly that they’re doing it. They’re becoming more confident and independent and that’s happening with so many of our athletes.”
For Turcotte and McHale, stories like these are the most rewarding part of being involved.
“We get so attached to them,” Turcotte said. “Watching them thrive, grow, and become more social is incredible. It gives us such satisfaction. We all want to feel successful and have fun with friends, and these athletes are no different. Being able to give them that means everything.”
For McHale, that fulfillment comes not only as a coach and leader, but also as a parent.
“I love that something like this exists, because opportunities for people with special needs can be very limited,” she said. “When you find an organization where your child can be social, active, and feel included, it’s a huge win for the entire special needs community. It’s been amazing for my son and for so many others.”
The Atlantic County Aces welcome any athlete who wants to participate, with a general age range of 14 and up. Following the floor hockey team’s recent championship success, the organization hopes to continue growing and welcoming new athletes.
The Aces pickleball team will compete in state games at the end of this month, with bowling sectionals scheduled for early February at King Pin. Summer sports begin in March with bocce ball, followed by state games in June, offering plenty of opportunities for athletes to stay active, connected, and involved.
“If you have a disability and want to play one of our sports, come on in, you are more than welcome,” Turcotte said.
“No matter what level you play at,” McHale added.
