When community, purpose, and teamwork come together, incredible things happen.

That is exactly what is unfolding this season as Human Technologies, the Utica University Pioneers Football Team, and the Mohawk Valley Challengers partner to celebrate inclusion through the power of sport.

Born from a simple idea, giving athletes of all abilities a chance to shine, this partnership has grown into something far greater. Each year, the Pioneers invite the Challengers to their practice field for a shared workout and, later, to take the field at halftime during the November 1 game at 1:00 p.m. inside Gaetano Stadium. Players from both teams, along with HT employees, come together for a flag football showcase that is equal parts inspiration and pure joy.

“The synergy between these organizations is perfect,” said Carl Reistrom, President & CEO of Human Technologies. “Seeing the excitement in these athletes’ faces reminds us why we do what we do.”

The Challengers, led by Coach Brad Preston, offer free flag football and cheer programs for children and young adults with differing abilities. The program is powered entirely by community support and partnerships like this one. For Coach Blaise Faggiano and his Pioneers, it is an opportunity to teach life lessons that go far beyond the game.

“Our players get just as much out of it as the Challengers do,” Faggiano shared. “It’s about giving back, building character, and using our platform to promote something meaningful.”

Together, these three organizations are showing what it means to create a community where everyone belongs, on the field and off.

Check out the entire interview here: