Fight to save Aviator Sports Complex continues as closure deadline approaches
Parents say the complex plays a vital role in their children’s development.
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With just 13 days remaining until the possible closure of the Aviator Sports Complex, parents and young athletes are ramping up efforts to keep the facility open.
For many, Aviator is more than just a sports center—it is a foundation for dreams.
“I have been an Aviator for four years, which is almost half my life,” said one young athlete.
Parents say the complex plays a vital role in their children’s development.
“As parents, we look to give our kids every opportunity to grow emotionally, socially, and physically, and this is it,” said Laura Morabito, a gymnastics parent.
Determined to spread awareness, one parent recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to present “dream packages” to local elected leaders in an effort to gain support.
“I thought that it would be a great example for kids—that they can make an impact,” said Olga Vaschuk, whose child is a figure skater at Aviator.
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis has been in communication with the National Park Service (NPS) to expedite the search for a new operator for the facility.
“There is someone who has expressed interest, and the National Park Service is reviewing that application,” Malliotakis said. “We are hopeful we can get this approved and hit the ground running so we don’t lose any time in the season.”
NPS did not respond to News 12’s request for comment but previously stated it had offered a one-year contract extension through April 2026. However, no final decision will be made until the application review is complete.
As the April 14 deadline approaches, uncertainty weighs heavily on parents and young athletes.
Despite the looming threat of closure, families remain committed to fighting for their sports hub’s future.
“We have no idea what’s going to happen, so we really, really are hopeful,” said Evelyn Gugel, whose children participate in gymnastics and hockey at Aviator. “We are all working hard.”
