Manchester Township High School proudly hosted its first-ever Slam Dunk Autism Challenge on Saturday, January 24, bringing together students, staff, families, and community members from across Ocean and Monmouth Counties for a powerful day of athletics, advocacy, and inclusion.
Although an inaugural event for MTHS, the Challenge has been raising funds for special needs programming since 2017. Today's event featured three girls’ high school basketball games and three boys’ basketball games, all united by a shared mission to support the district’s special education programs while promoting awareness and acceptance for individuals with autism.
The Slam Dunk Autism Challenge was led by Manchester Township High School Athletic Director Christopher Hoffman, a former special education teacher and lifelong supporter and advocate for special needs programming. Drawing on his professional background and personal commitment, he brought this meaningful initiative to Manchester, marking the first time the event has been held in the district.
“As Athletic Director of Manchester Township High School, I was incredibly proud to see our community come together for the Slam Dunk Autism Challenge,” said Christopher Hoffman. “This event represents everything we want our athletic programs to stand for in the way of inclusion, service, and support for our students.”
Funds raised through the Slam Dunk Autism Challenge will directly benefit the Manchester Township School District’s special education programs, reinforcing the school community’s ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of all learners. Throughout the day, the gymnasium reflected a strong sense of school spirit, teamwork, and generosity.
Beyond the competition on the court, the Slam Dunk Autism Challenge served as a reminder that athletics can be a powerful platform for leadership and positive impact.
“Athletics inspire passion, hard work, and pride in our schools,” said Superintendent Diane Pedroza. “They also give us a powerful platform to support our community and make a difference. The success of this first-ever Slam Dunk Autism Challenge reflects the best of what sports can do when we come together for a meaningful cause.”
Manchester Township High School extends its sincere gratitude to all of the student-athletes, coaches, officials, and community members who helped make the inaugural Slam Dunk Autism Challenge a memorable success. The district was proud to welcome and compete alongside Colts Neck, Ocean Township, Middletown High School North, Middletown High School South, Raritan High School, Toms River East, Toms River South, and Brick Township, whose participation throughout the day highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship, inclusion, and community collaboration that defined this first-ever event.