Empire State Games Returning to Rochester
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The Empire State games will be returning to Rochester next summer. It was announced Thursday that Rochester will host the summer games in 2013.
A new not-for-profit foundation has made it possible for the games to be held. Last year’s games were canceled because of finances. Under the new model, the games will be funded through private sources and corporate sponsorship.
Past athletes say it is important to get a chance to compete against fellow athletes in the state.
“The experiences I had were unbelievable, winning a gold medal and playing against the best athletes in the state; doesn't get much better than that, as far as the competitive aspect of it. I want someone, that young athlete behind me, to be able to experience that, have fun with it and compete at a high level,” said Stephen Gionta, who plays for the NHL’s New Jersey Devils.
In February, the Winter version of the games will be held in Lake Placid.
The summer games in Rochester are set to take place July 24th through the 28th.