The unified basketball team, coached by Melyssa Amelio, had a terrific season this spring, going 5-1-1 against their opponents.
The unified basketball team is a mix of high school students, both special and general education. At all times, there are at least three special education students on the floor with their general education teammates. Students in the high school’s Life Skills program were eager to compete in this varsity sport along with their volunteer teammates.
Recently, the team celebrated the 2023 season with an ice cream sundae party after school. They were also receiving their varsity letter. Those returning players who already received their letter, got a pin to go on it.
Many members of the team attended the party to receive their letters, pins and certificates. They were cheered on by Coach Mel, Superintendent Brian Dunn, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Amy Brockner, Assistant Superintendent for Business Joe Lenz, Athletic Director Mike Gillespie, and team helpers Julie Salisbury, Marie Tobin and Brian Heller.
The unified basketball team was formed in 2018. During the pandemic, the team took a break but was back last year in full force and again this year. Mr. Gillespie said most of the games were very exciting and close. Pine Bush High School also has a unified bowling team, which began this winter.
But today, the athletes were savoring their newly attained varsity letters and some delicious ice cream. They are all looking forward to playing again in 2024!
The Unified Sports Program is a collaboration between the New York State Public High School Athletic Association and Special Olympics New York. According to the NYSPHSAA website, the three main components of Project Unify are: To combine athletes with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team and contribute their own unique skills; to provide leadership opportunities to students and to provide opportunities for all students to participate in school-wide campaigns and activities.
The Pine Bush Unified Basketball Team 2023
- Alexis Eidukot
- Emily Higgins
- Patrick Mataraza
- Jennifer Sorrentino
- Logan Vatore
- Anabella Almeida
- Andrew Colon
- Ellie Hoppe
- Monica Ilioiu
- Jesnel Jean
- Tomek Oakes
- Anthony Romano
- Austin Varga
- Ciena DeJesus
- Maggie Zayas