Members of the Kean baseball and lacrosse programs recently volunteered at the Somerset Hills YMCA, in support of the 'Saturdays in Motion' developmental program for children with autism.
   
The baseball and lacrosse programs have supported the cause in years past, making them pillars in the longest running recreational program for children with autism in the United States.
Supporting neurodiversity is particularly special for Kean junior catcher John Chiusano, who was among the volunteers representing Kean baseball.

Chiusano, an All-NJAC second team selection in 2025, has a cousin with autism back at their home in Long Island, New York.

"It's really important to me because I know, in a lot of cases, children with autism don't have too many friends or people that can just be there for them outside of family", says Chiusano.

"For us to go out there and just be friends for them can potentially make their day, their week, or even their year, is something that's very important to me." Chiusano also recognizes the broad spectrum that exists within neurodiversity, and acknowledges how important it is, as a volunteer, to show up with a smile, no matter what the case is.

"There are different types of autism within kids. Some are more functional than others. No matter what they are dealing with, the volunteers should always have smiles on their faces. Even if the kids are just sitting there and maybe not listening or don't really understand. Just being there for them with a smile gives them a lot of joy."

When asked about the impact that his players, like Chiusano, would have on the kids during 'Saturdays in Motion', baseball head coach Neil Ioviero pointed out how beneficial it is for not only the children, but for his players.

"I think in life if you find yourself giving more than you are receiving, you will find out you actually get so much more in return, says Ioviero.

"I know that the kids they are helping are getting a lot out of it, but to be truthful, I think our kids are getting so much more out of it."

Alex Lopes, Head Coach of the Men's Lacrosse program, echoes the same sentiment, in saying how proud of his players he is & how much he knows experiences like this will impact their lives.
  "Our team participates in as many service activities as our schedules allow, whether that means volunteering at local events, supporting youth programs, or helping with charitable causes, says Coach Lawshe.

"These experiences not only strengthen our connection with the community, but also help build teamwork, leadership, and a sense of purpose beyond the field."

For Lawshe, community service initiatives are an important aspect of what her team strives to be off of the field.

"We take pride in being more than just athletes - we strive to be positive role models and active members of our community." Community service initiatives are an important part of our lacrosse program because we believe in giving back to the community that supports us."

Taking pride in being more than just athletes is a mindset that Coach Lawshe and her players have adopted, beginning with sophomore & 2024 All-NJAC First Team selection Savannah Olsson, who was among the volunteers at Saturdays in Motion.     When asked what she might take away from the experience, Olsson referenced two important abilities that can not only be applied on the lacrosse field, but away from it as well.

"Moving forward, my teammates and I will carry these lessons both on and off the field, remembering to lead with empathy and understanding," said Olsson.

"Seeing the smiles on children's faces and building a connection with them was so fulfilling and taught me the true impact of kindness and patience."

It's well known that Saturdays in Motion will always have a special place in the hearts of members within Kean Athletics.
   
Back in 2021, Kean lacrosse spearheaded the annual "Connor's Game" in honor of Connor Sgaramella, son of Associate Athletic Director Jay Sgaramella, who has been diagnosed with autism.

Since then, the annual game has been expanded, but not limited, to baseball & women's lacrosse.
   
Connor, who will be taking part in the 6th annual "Connors Game" next spring, is also a part of the Saturdays in Motion program.

"Saturdays in Motion is especially important to us because Connor is in the program, says Coach Lawshe. SIM means a lot to their family, therefore we love to support them."