Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Project 1-2-3: Day 31 - Going Bowling

Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

The first (and only) Special Spectators event to take place at a college football bowl game was at the 2005 Motor City Bowl. Thanks to tickets provided by the University of Akron athletic department, families from the Children's Hospital of Michigan attended the game. They also enjoyed a delicious lunch in a luxury suite courtesy of Levy Restaurants' operation at Ford Field.




Reminder: Need a gift for Dad or your favorite golfer? Order your Special Spectators Golf Package presented by DoGoodBuyUs. This exclusive package includes a dozen Nike One Vapor Speed golf balls, an Automatic Umbrella with 42-inch coverage, Eco Golf Tees in an organic cotton pouch, and a 5-Function Golf Tool (with a divot tool, cigar cutter, club face brush, stroke counter, ball mark and belt clip).

Monday, May 30, 2011

Project 1-2-3: Day 30 - The Biggest Event

Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

On October 4, 2005, Special Spectators hosted its biggest game day event ever. Approximately 175 people attended our event at North Texas for a Thursday night game. Over 100 student-athletes visited with the children and thanks to Levy Restaurant's operations at Texas Motor Speedway, everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner.

The Special Spectators tailgate at North Texas

The crew from Texas Motor Speedway who provided the delicious dinner

Great food means happy faces

Reminder: Need a gift for Dad or your favorite golfer? Order your Special Spectators Golf Package presented by DoGoodBuyUs. This exclusive package includes a dozen Nike One Vapor Speed golf balls, an Automatic Umbrella with 42-inch coverage, Eco Golf Tees in an organic cotton pouch, and a 5-Function Golf Tool (with a divot tool, cigar cutter, club face brush, stroke counter, ball mark and belt clip).

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Project 1-2-3: Day 29 - Courtside Seats

Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

The 2011 Special Spectators event at a Kansas State men's basketball game included lunch, pictures with Willie Wildcat, meeting football Head Coach Bill Snyder, and sitting courtside at Bramlage Coliseum. The seats included all the candy and soda the kids could consume.




Reminder: Need a gift for Dad or your favorite golfer? Order your Special Spectators Golf Package presented by DoGoodBuyUs. This exclusive package includes a dozen Nike One Vapor Speed golf balls, an Automatic Umbrella with 42-inch coverage, Eco Golf Tees in an organic cotton pouch, and a 5-Function Golf Tool (with a divot tool, cigar cutter, club face brush, stroke counter, ball mark and belt clip).

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Project 1-2-3: Day 28 - Help Wanted: You Can Make A Difference

Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

Over the last few weeks, the Special Spectators blog has featured the different aspects of the typical game day event, its impact on the seriously-ill children and families who attend and our accomplishments over the last nine seasons. Since 2002, we've hosted almost 6,000 patients, parents and siblings at about 185 games. We've done this at a total cost to the organization of less than $95,000. 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 2011 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
  • Multimedia
  • Mobile Technology
  • Legal
  • Fundraising
  • Volunteer Coordination
  • Game Day Event Planning
  • Game Day Event Volunteers
  • Sponsorships
  • Business Development
  • Hospital Relations
  • Family Relations
  • Marketing
  • Logistics
  • Financial Reporting

  • 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're a recent college graduate and the current economic climate has made it difficult to find a job or you're a talented professional who has recently been laid-off and are looking to volunteer your time. Whether you can give several days a week or only a few minutes a month, 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, the Big Ten Network, Delta Airlines in-flight entertainment and local coverage in markets such as Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Dallas, Orlando, Philadelphia, 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.

    Reminder: Need a gift for Dad or your favorite golfer? Order your Special Spectators Golf Package presented by DoGoodBuyUs. This exclusive package includes a dozen Nike One Vapor Speed golf balls, an Automatic Umbrella with 42-inch coverage, Eco Golf Tees in an organic cotton pouch, and a 5-Function Golf Tool (with a divot tool, cigar cutter, club face brush, stroke counter, ball mark and belt clip).

    Thursday, May 26, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 27 - Share Your Favorite Tailgate Recipes

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    As we prepare for Memorial Day weekend and the official start to the grilling season, we want to know your favorite tailgate or grilling recipes.

    The tailgate party is an important part of the Special Spectators game day event. Along with the games and special visitors, a delicious meal helps complete a successful pre-game party.

    It's not easy, however, to always provide a diverse menu and capture the regional cuisine. So share with us and our readers, your best and tastiest tailgate and grilling meals. Enter your recipe in the comment area below and you'll help us strive for the perfect game day event.

    Thank you and have a very safe and happy Memorial Day 2011!

    Reminder: Need a gift for Dad or your favorite golfer? Order your Special Spectators Golf Package presented by DoGoodBuyUs. This exclusive package includes a dozen Nike One Vapor Speed golf balls, an Automatic Umbrella with 42-inch coverage, Eco Golf Tees in an organic cotton pouch, and a 5-Function Golf Tool (with a divot tool, cigar cutter, club face brush, stroke counter, ball mark and belt clip).

    Project 1-2-3: Day 26 - "If I had hair . . ."

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    Over the last nine years, we've met some incredible children. Their presence, demeanor, grace and spirit are truly inspiring. Many are wise beyond their years and possess a sharp sense of humor.

    This was on display during the Special Spectators event at Oklahoma State in 2010. Head Coach Mike Gundy invited the kids to stand in the tunnel as the Cowboys took the field at Boone Pickens Stadium. Up to this point, the event had been full of excitement - a tour of all the facilities including the locker room and field, introduced to the alumni at the pep rally, a pizza party, and the first to greet the team at "The Walk".

    As the kids waited for the team to emerge from the locker room, however, it was obvious that the kids' enthusiasm was high.

    And then Morgan from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma had the perfect line. "I'm so excited. If I had hair it would be standing on end."

    We'll have more on this event later in "Project 1-2-3".

    Below is a picture of Morgan and the other Special Spectators with Coach Gundy in the tunnel.


    Reminder: Need a gift for Dad or your favorite golfer? Order your Special Spectators Golf Package presented by DoGoodBuyUs. This exclusive package includes a dozen Nike One Vapor Speed golf balls, an Automatic Umbrella with 42-inch coverage, Eco Golf Tees in an organic cotton pouch, and a 5-Function Golf Tool (with a divot tool, cigar cutter, club face brush, stroke counter, ball mark and belt clip).

    Wednesday, May 25, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 25 - Volunteer Volunteers

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    The Special Spectators events at the University of Tennessee have featured some very memorable moments - delicious tailgates in the shadows of Neyland Stadium, visits by the Volunteer men's basketball team and a stadium announcement in front of more than a 100,000 orange-clad fans. Many thanks to the members of the East Tennessee (Knoxville) chapter of the National Football Foundation for volunteering their time and resources to host these events! These Volunteers are real volunteers.

    The Special Spectators tailgate tent at Tennessee

    Members of the men's basketball team visit with the children

    Big smiles!

    Reminder: Need a gift for Dad or your favorite golfer? Order your Special Spectators Golf Package presented by DoGoodBuyUs. This exclusive package includes a dozen Nike One Vapor Speed golf balls, an Automatic Umbrella with 42-inch coverage, Eco Golf Tees in an organic cotton pouch, and a 5-Function Golf Tool (with a divot tool, cigar cutter, club face brush, stroke counter, ball mark and belt clip).

    Tuesday, May 24, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 24 - Lunch with Pete

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    The Special Spectators tailgate is a great place for the kids to meet guests such as cheerleaders, student-athletes and mascots. The game day event at Purdue featured a visit by Purdue Pete who brought gifts for the kids, signed autographs and posed for pictures.


    Remember: Order your Special Spectators Golf Package presented by DoGoodBuyUs. This exclusive package includes a dozen Nike One Vapor Speed golf balls, an Automatic Umbrella with 42-inch coverage, Eco Golf Tees in an organic cotton pouch, and a 5-Function Golf Tool (with a divot tool, cigar cutter, club face brush, stroke counter, ball mark and belt clip).

    Monday, May 23, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 23 - More Than Football

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    Special Spectators was originally designed to create game day events for seriously ill children at college football games. As our collegiate partners discovered how much going to a game impacted the families, they asked us to host similar events for other sports. We've hosted kids at soccer matches, gymnastics meets, basketball and baseball games. This segment from ESPN2's morning show, Cold Pizza, features an event at a University of Akron men's basketball game. Delta Airlines also included this piece as part of their in-flight entertainment in September 2004.

    Sunday, May 22, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 22 - The Suite Life

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    Each year the Special Spectators event at Oklahoma State provides a very unique opportunity. Thanks to Stillwater National Bank and its Chairman, Robert Rodgers, the children watch the Cowboys from the comfort of the bank's luxury suite at Boone Pickens Stadium. The families have several options of delicious food and the dessert cart is always popular.

    The Special Spectators at Oklahoma State show off their thank you cards from Cowboy Head Coach Mike Gundy in the Stillwater National Bank suite.

    Saturday, May 21, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 21 - A Tip of the Cap

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    By Blake Rockwell
    Executive Director


    On day 3 of "Project 1-2-3", we introduced you to Fletcher in the post, "Little Ladies Man." Fletcher was, as are all the children we're fortunate to serve, an amazing youngster - wise beyond his years and a great sense of humor.

    On September 11, 2004, Special Spectators hosted its first game day event at the University of Oklahoma. Late in the third quarter, the kids and I headed toward the field for the stadium announcement which was scheduled between the third and fourth quarters.

    Moments before the announcement, the kids asked me to join them on the field. Three younger boys stood in front of Fletcher and me as the announcement began. The crowd cheered loudly for the kids and I turned to acknowledge the fans behind us. As I did, with my back turned slightly to the boys, the stadium suddenly erupted into a thunderous roar. I didn't know why. When I turned back to face the kids, I noticed Fletcher. This ten year-old boy had courageously removed his OU cap to reveal his bald head and began waving it to the crowd. The place went nuts!

    The picture below captured this moment beautifully.

    Friday, May 20, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 20 - The Game Day Event

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    The three previous post for "Project 1-2-3" focused on three separate segments of a typical Special Spectators game day event - the tailgate, the special access moments and the stadium announcement.

    What does it look like when all three flow into one exciting day? Take a look at these videos:

    The story of one Special Spectator and his day at a Northwestern football game is featured on the Big Ten Network.

    KXLY reports on the Special Spectators event at Washington State.

    The 2010 game day event at Oklahoma is showcased in this video.

    Wednesday, May 18, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 19 - The Making of a Special Spectators Event: The Stadium Announcement

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    The last two posts in "Project 1-2-3" featured two exciting aspects of every Special Spectators game day event - the tailgate and special access moments. The stadium announcement, however, may be the most moving.

    Imagine there's a break in the action - maybe a time out or it's halftime. You notice a small group of seriously ill kids walking on the field. Suddenly you hear, "Ladies and Gentlemen please direct your attention to mid-field." The announcement continues to tell you about the children, why they're attending the game and a brief description of Special Spectators. Finally, the crowd is asked to welcome the kids to the stadium. These little fans receive the loudest applause of the game - a thunderous roar. A standing ovation from 70, 80, 90 . . . . even 100,000 fans! Looking around the stands, you see tears being wiped away and hear fans yelling words of encouragement.

    Here are a few pictures.

    Special Spectators at Colorado during a stadium announcement at Folsom Field.


    Georgia Tech Special Spectators on the field with "Buzz" and the Yellow Jacket cheerleaders.


    Special Spectators at OU acknowledge the ovation from nearly 85,000 Sooner fans.

    Project 1-2-3: Day 18 - The Making of a Special Spectators Event: Special Access

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    In yesterday's "Project 1-2-3" post, we shared all the fun and excitement generated during the Special Spectators tailgate. That's only the start. Providing special access to people and areas of the stadium not accessible to most fans is a big part of our events. Below is just a sampling.

    A Special Spectator at Northwestern wears Dave Eanet's headset during a visit to the WGN Radio booth


    Trying on an Oklahoma State helmet during a visit to the Cowboys' locker room


    Special Spectators greet the Hoosiers just outside Memorial Stadium


    Oklahoma Head Coach Bob Stoops poses with the kids during a pre-game visit to his office

    Monday, May 16, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 16 - College Football's Best Traditions

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    College football is known for its color, pageantry and traditions. Whether it's Chief Osceola riding Renegade or Traveler galloping around the Coliseum, Ralphie at Folsom Field or Bevo at Texas Memorial Stadium, the Vol Navy, doting the "i" in Script Ohio, The Walk, Howard's Rock - the list is endless.

    We want to hear from you!

    What is the greatest tradition in college football and why? Click here and give us your opinion. You may see some Special Spectators participating in that tradition in 2011.

    Sunday, May 15, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 15 - The Hospital Visit

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    In addition to Special Spectators game day events, we also coordinate visits to children's hospital by student-athletes. The patients are always excited to meet local heroes and the players are inspired by their new young friends.

    The Fighting Illini's Winston Taylor plays with a patient


    Temple players visit with a patient at Temple University Children's Hospital


    Northwestern DE Kevin Mims gives a high five during a visit to Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago


    Members of the UCF football team spreading some cheer


    The Arizona Wildcats during a visit to University Medical Center

    Project 1-2-3: Day 17 - The Making of a Special Spectators Event: The Tailgate

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    The tailgate serves as the base of operations for nearly every Special Spectators game day event. It's at this location - usually just outside the stadium - where excited families arrive for the start of the event, kids meet many visitors, everyone enjoys a delicious meal and play a game or two.


    Families typically arrive two and a half to three hours before kick-off. The kids often meet guests visiting the tailgate including cheerleaders, mascots and student-athletes. Sometimes the families enjoy a private concert courtesy of the host school's marching band.


    The kids are always excited to meet the student-athletes who visit the tailgate. Whether it's a seven foot center from the men's basketball team putting a child on his shoulders, playing games like corn hole or touch football, receiving an autograph or just meeting and getting to know each other, the student-athletes are a great source of fun.


    It's not a real tailgate unless you include food. Depending on the game's start time, we serve eggs, sausage, potatoes and pancakes for breakfast or hot dogs, hamburgers or BBQ for lunch and dinner. The excitement builds when the kids realize that ice cream sundaes will be served for dessert with their choice of several toppings.


    None of this would be possible if not for the imagination and dedication of our volunteers. They are involved from the designing and planning phases through the creation of the event on game day. The Special Spectators volunteers have a variety of experience and may be individuals who expressed an interest in getting involved or employees of a generous corporate partner.

    Saturday, May 14, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 14 - The Inspiration

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    By Blake Rockwell
    Executive Director

    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 enthusiast, 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. I discovered that 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 how amazing it would be 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.

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

    Since 2002, Special Spectators has hosted nearly 6,000 seriously ill children, parents and siblings at roughly 185 game day events complete with tailgate parties, locker room visits, meeting players and coaches, and standing on the field for a stadium announcement.

    The 2011 season is poised to be our biggest ever. Stay tuned.

    Friday, May 13, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 13 - A Day with the Dawgs

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    The Special Spectators event at the University of Georgia included a tailgate party, meeting the women's basketball team, courtside seats for a men's basketball practice and a visit on the field at Sanford Stadium. Oh . . . the kids met a couple bulldogs, too.



    Thursday, May 12, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 12 - The 'Cats and the "Claw"

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    A Special Spectators event at Northwestern includes Willie the Wildcat teaching the "Claw" to the kids during a visit to our pre-game tailgate; meeting WGN Radio's, Dave Eanet, high atop Ryan Field; an autograph session with the victorious 'Cats outside the locker room; and the kids show Coach Fitzgerald their "Claw" during a post-game visit.









    Wednesday, May 11, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 11 - "All Access"

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    This picture taken by volunteer Kay Tangner of Special Spectator, Turner, says it all. From his front row seats at Oklahoma's Memorial Stadium, Turner soaks up the excitement. A light breeze blew his game pass over his shoulder and reveals exactly what our events provide, "All Access."

    More on Turner later in "Project 1-2-3."

    Tuesday, May 10, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 10 - Rain or Shine

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    Mother Nature has been a friend to Special Spectators. Out of the 185 game day events we've hosted, it's estimated that less than 10 have been impacted by rainy weather. When the weather turns soggy, however, it doesn't dampen the kids' excitement.

    September 13, 2008, Special Spectators was scheduled to host nearly 50 kids and parents from Chicago area hospitals at a Northwestern football game. Remnants from hurricane Ike dumped nearly seven inches of rain - a record rainfall for one day in Chicago. Highways were closed, viaducts were flooded and no route to the stadium was immune from at least one detour. What should have been a one hour drive for one family, turned into a three and a half hour excursion.

    Some of our families stayed home, but about half of our gang made it to the pre-game tailgate party. All those who arrived, stayed until the game was over and met the Wildcats during a post-game visit. The players didn't disappoint! They made sure everyone had an autograph and spent time meeting and talking with the youngsters.

    When you consider what some of the kids go through with their illness, being outside in a deluge that measures almost seven inches is nothing!

    Monday, May 9, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 9 - Getting a Lift

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    Girls enjoy Special Spectators game day events just as much as boys. They love meeting coaches, players, watching the game and occasionally, they find themselves in the middle of the action that eludes the boys. Today's picture from the Special Spectators event at Indiana shows what I mean. A Hoosier cheerleader provides a lift for one excited young lady.

    Sunday, May 8, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 8 - The Moms

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    On Mother's Day 2011, we honor the amazing women we've met over the last nine years and all the moms with seriously ill children. They are truly remarkable and gracefully manage a dizzying list or responsibilities. They drive for hours and travel many miles, sometimes more than once a week, for their child's treatment. They spend sleepless nights endlessly researching illnesses, doctors, hospitals and medications. Moms quickly become part-time doctors and pharmacists. They tackle mountains of bills and insurance forms. Doing all this while working, cooking, getting kids to school, shopping, helping with homework and ensuring their other kids don't feel neglected. To them we say a big, "Happy Mother's Day!"

    We also want to share with you some very nice comments moms said about Special Spectators. Here are a few:

    "Thank you so much for making this day so amazing for my daughter, Olivia! I know she will never forget this day and how amazing it was!" J.H. Mother

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

    "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

    Saturday, May 7, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 7 - A Local Legend

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    Of all the different activities during a Special Spectators game day event, meeting the athletes may be the most popular. Whether it's the student-athletes who visit our tailgate parties or the players in the locker room, the children love meeting their local heroes. The athletes don't disappoint - they're accessible and naturally connect with the kids.

    This was especially true during an event at Fresno State. Despite the 105 degree temperatures, the children enjoyed playing games with members of the men's and women's basketball teams and women's volleyball team. It wasn't until the arrival of perhaps the most famous Bulldog, however, that their excitement peaked. NFL quarterback David Carr made a special appearance at our tailgate party. The 100 patients and parents from Children's Hospital Central California in nearby Madera, anxiously waited for an autograph and a picture with the former Fresno State star. Here's a great shot from that moment.

    Friday, May 6, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 6 - The Roar of the Crowd

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    We often say that Special Spectators doesn't just TAKE seriously ill children to games, but makes them a PART of the games by providing access to people and areas of the stadium that are not accessible to most fans. This includes participating in pre game preparation, visiting the locker room, meeting coaches and players and taking part in post game traditions. Our goal is to give the kids a sense that they're a member of the team.

    Nothing exemplifies this better than the stadium announcement. Not only does it create incredible memories for the parents and their children, but provides an opportunity for the youngsters to know exactly how it feels to have tens of thousands of fans cheering for them - just like the players.

    While the kids stand on the field during a time out, a stadium announcement explains why the youngsters are attending the game, provides a brief description of Special Spectators and asks the crowd to give the children a warm welcome to the stadium. Typically this results in a standing ovation.

    Imagine as many as 100,000 fans giving a small group of seriously ill children one of the loudest standing ovations you've ever heard. While walking kids back to their seats, it's not unusual to notice fans wiping tears from their eyes and hearing them yell words of encouragement.

    This video includes a perfect example of this moment courtesy of the 2007 Special Spectators game day event at Washington State and KXLY.

    Thursday, May 5, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 5 - Special Delivery

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    The 2005 Special Spectators game day event at the University of Colorado was loaded with fun activities for the 100 seriously ill youngsters and parents from The Children's Hospital in Denver. Everyone enjoyed a delicious tailgate dinner thanks to the Levy Restaurants staff from the Pepsi Center. The kids received a standing ovation from the CU fans while standing on Folsom Field during a time out. FSN's John Rhadigan featured the children during the game telecast. There was even a fireworks show during halftime.

    No one, however, expected the type of surprise that occurred during the tailgate party. Crocs, the sponsor of the event, gave each child a pair of black and gold clogs delivered by about 20 members of the CU football team. The players, while dressed in full gear minus their helmets, sized each youngster and made sure each pair fit properly.

    Check out FSN's coverage here. (The second segment at the 1:50 mark).

    Tuesday, May 3, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 4 - A Great Partner

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    Since 2002, Special Spectators has hosted approximately 6,000 seriously ill children, parents and siblings at about 185 games. This wouldn't be possible if not for the support and assistance from a number of people - athletic departments, hospitals, coaches, volunteers, donors, strategic partners and sponsors. We'll feature some of these during "Project 1-2-3". Today we introduce you to one of our first partners - CME Group.


    Annually since 2004, CME Group has sponsored the Special Spectators events at Northwestern and Illinois. Community Relations Manager, Greg Carroll, and his group of employees and members have passionately created many memorable moments. Each year, a combined 150 Wildcat and Fighting Illini attendees have enjoyed delicious tailgate parties, face painting, VIP visits and games.


    The last two years, Greg and his crew have really been unstoppable. The 2009 and 2010 Northwestern and Illinois events were scheduled on the same day. Fortunately, the kick-off in Evanston was at 11:00 AM each year while in Champaign, the Fighting Illini played night games. That means the volunteers from CME Group arrived at Ryan Field around 7:30 in the morning, helped set-up the tailgate party, served a delicious breakfast for 50 attendees, packed up their vans as the Wildcats took the field and embarked on a three and a half hour drive south. Once in Champaign, they set-up the tailgate party outside Memorial Stadium, hosted 100 attendees from Carle Hospital, served a fantastic pre-game dinner, packed up the vans again, watched most of the game, and headed north arriving home close to midnight.


    A famous Chicago sports legend is often quoted saying, "Let's play two." Even Ernie Banks would be impressed by the doubleheader pulled off by Greg Carroll and the volunteers from CME Group. Thank You!!!

    Monday, May 2, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 3 - The Little Ladies Man

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    The 2004 Special Spectators event at the University of Oklahoma provided great memories, smiles and laughs. We hosted five young boys with Fletcher being the oldest by two to three years.

    During the game's second half, we noticed the Sooner cheerleaders heading toward our seats. After it was announced some guests were about to pay a visit and the boys noticed who, the four youngest boys couldn't run away fast enough.


    But not Fletcher.

    With a big smile on his face, he directed the ladies to sit around him and quickly requested someone to take pictures. As you can see, Fletcher loved the attention. It goes without saying this moment created the day's biggest smiles.

    We'll have more on Fletcher later in "Project 1-2-3."

    Sunday, May 1, 2011

    Project 1-2-3: Day 2

    Note: Starting May 1st and continuing for the 123 days leading up to the start of the 2011 college football season, "Project 1-2-3" will share pictures, videos and memorable moments from the last nine years of Special Spectators game day events.

    On this second day of "Project 1-2-3", we celebrate the second collegiate partner to participate in Special Spectators starting in 2002 - the UCF Knights. Below are pictures from the Special Spectators tailgate with a visit by the UCF cheerleaders and the football team's hospital visit.


    Special Spectators Launches "Project 1-2-3"

    If you're a college football fan, I don't have to tell you the significance of today, May 1st. Spring ball is over for every FBS program. Your thoughts and excitement are focused on the fall. You're anxiously awaiting the season preview publications to arrive at your local magazine stand. The start of the 2011 college football season is exactly four months from today. The countdown to kickoff is 123 days.

    With that in mind, today Special Spectators is launching, "Project 1-2-3".

    Over the course of the next 123 days - each and every day - "Project 1-2-3" will be sharing 123 memorable moments, images and videos from the past nine years. There isn't any significance to the order of these moments. It's simple - 123 moments in 123 days. Creating for you, the reader, a range of emotions. A combination of 123 smiles, tears, laughs and moments of inspiration.

    The Special Spectators blog will still provide updates as we prepare for the 2011 season and the source for big announcements. Here's a hint - we'll have some big announcements.


    "Project 1-2-3" also has another objective. We hope to attract additional collegiate partners, hospitals, sponsors, volunteers and strategic partners to Special Spectators and by sharing these 123 memories, they'll realize that collaborating with Special Spectators is as easy as, you guessed it, 1-2-3.

    So, on this first day of "Project 1-2-3" with 123 days until the start of the college football season, it only makes sense to share this video and picture from the very first event Special Spectators coordinated - a hospital visit by the 2002 Arizona Wildcat football team to University Medical Center in Tucson.