Held back on May 20, one of the team’s coaches, Cassidy Buchman, said the game was held during the school day to give both students with and without disabilities the ability to come and play. The game was held against Fredonia students who came to the school, and Buchman said a lot of planning went into the game to allow for students along with teachers and administrators to come and watch. The game also had students doing the announcements or play by play, and the band was there to play songs.

“The Unified Team wanted to do this game to give students the opportunity to build friendships, teamwork and school spirit,” Buchman said. “It allowed students to feel included and involved and participate in something meaningful together. It also allowed other students to see what a Unified Basketball game looks like.”

Holding games such as this, Buchman said, is important for the school and district as it helps to promote inclusivity and belonging through community. She added it is important to create opportunities for everyone to be able to participate and that the game also helped to strengthen the culture of the school.

“Having a unified game during school hours allowed for the student body to come support our team,” staff member and parent Katie Kelley said. “From elementary to senior high, all spectators seemed to enjoy the game. The junior high band kept the crowd lively with their beats. Not only was it entertaining, but I am hoping that it brings more interest to our unified program in future years.”

Students both with and without disabilities were given the opportunity to play against Fredonia. Submitted photo

The game itself, Buchman said, went very well, with a lot of excitement from students, staff and families who all came together for it.

“That was electric,” Jeff Housler, Physical Education Teacher said.

Buchman added that all of the students worked together to make the experience a positive one.

“Students were positive and encouraging, and it created a memorable experience for everyone,” Buchman said.

Most importantly, she said, the game was an opportunity to show the school that Unified is more than just basketball, but also an opportunity to foster teamwork, inclusion, and to allow students to be celebrated in the school community.

The game took place during the school day to give students, teachers and administrators the chance to see a Unified game in action. Submitted photo

“I’m so proud of all of the students that participated and represented the school positively,” Buchman said. “It will be a lasting memory and helped to create a positive school community.”

Buchman added that they hoped to see the Unified Club program grow and to get more students involved. For more information on the Unified Club, Buchman can be reached at cbuchman@pval.org.

The Unified Basketball game gave students the opportunity to build friendships, teamwork and school spirit. Submitted photo