Running the court Unified Basketball team plays with heart

By Elly Meteer, Sasha Poradun & Wren Cueter SECTION EDITOR & STAFF REPORTERS

PHOTOS | Sasha Poradun

Cheerleaders in green and gold cheer from the sidelines, energetic fans shout in the stands and the Unified Basketball team plays their hearts out on the court. Throughout the season, the team has dedicated their time and effort to earn a 5-2 record.

Through the Special Olympics of Michigan, Unified Basketball was introduced as an opportunity for students with special needs to play alongside their classmates, aiming to promote inclusion within the school community. To maintain a welcoming atmosphere for Unified Sports, junior Gabby Miller highlights the importance of support from peers, both on and off the court.

“It’s my favorite when during time outs they see their friends in the stands and the biggest smile grows on their face,” Miller said. “By encouraging, supporting, and cheering the team on, the players feel motivated and admired.”

Unified Basketball spurs a positive energy for both the audience and the players, according to Special Education teacher Sheila Doss. She reflects on making the special needs students feel like an important part of the school along with the thrilling experience.

“If you look at the Unified Sports teams there’s bowling, baseball, golf, cheerleading, [and] tennis,” Doss said. “We’re hoping to be able to do some of that in the future.”

As the Unified Basketball season comes to an end, North offers more opportunities for students to continue making a difference in the special education community. Miller emphasizes the significance by recalling the possibilities made available by KNOTS, a school club working to promote inclusion for students with special needs.

“Students can promote inclusion while making everyone feel involved and equal through clubs like KNOTS,” Miller said. “I get paired with someone and spend time getting to know them through lunch and activities like cookie decorating.”

Similarly, parent Tish Hastings emphasizes the importance of peers actively opening up and presenting themselves as not only role models but friends both inside and outside of Unified Sports.

“Meeting new friends is so important but often very challenging for our kids.” Hastings said. “When other kids see that peer opening up and saying hello and helping out, it will hopefully be contagious and show others to do the same.”