The re-implementation of EL’s unified sports this past November has provided students and teachers with some competition to look forward to. The unified basketball team has played four games so far. Coaches hope to add more games to fill the schedule. EL’s unified sports options include soccer in the fall, basketball in winter, and track and field in spring. Both student athlete coaches and student athletes with disabilities travel to play against neighboring high schools.
“I just got inspired to join the team because I love playing basketball,” team member and sophomore Joelene Castagna said.
Unified sports create new and exciting experiences for East Lyme students who often get less opportunity then a typical high schooler.
“It’s really fun and it helps me get better at playing basketball and making new friends,” Castagna said.
Incorporating unified teams within the sports program allows for inclusion of a diverse group of students. Unified players create strong relationships with others they may have never been given the opportunity to bond with otherwise.
“For the students in my room, high school can feel like this big, daunting experience. They don’t always have the same experiences that students elsewhere in the school might have. So, being able to play and feel like a star on the team is huge for confidence,” Applied Behavior Analysis teacher and head coach Gabrielle Tassone Joy said.
Student coaches hold a major influence on the morale of the team. Having peers alongside them on the court creates a steady game for players. The extra support also helps for smooth practices for regular education and special education student and coaches.
“People are very generous with their time, the student coaches were lifesavers. I’m really really proud to work with them,” Ms. Joy said.
Typical practices consist of fundamental drills that prioritize dribbling, shooting from different areas on the court, and practicing effective defense. Practices began in November during a semester-long Adaptive P.E. class, and are now held twice a week during advisories.
Like any typical sports team, positivity and motivation are keys to success. This includes regular pep-talks from coaches and teammates. Ms. Joy describes the feeling as an “excited anxiety.”
“When we got [to Fitch High School], it kind of felt like everyone became a lot more comfortable. We saw the opponents and it was just like ‘We’re here, we got this,’ and that’s what I would tell them. ‘You know this, we’ve practiced this.’ Just trying to build their confidence,” Ms. Joy said.
The atmosphere of games is thrilling for all members of the team. It’s rewarding for coaches to see their work and dedication put on the court in action. It’s just as rewarding for players to experience the thrill of a competitive yet fun game.
“The student coaches are really helpful. They are on the court with them, but even off the court they’re cheering and reminding them they’re capable,” Ms. Joy said.
Student coaches include Cassidy O’Brien, Avery Stadler, Thomas Matlock, Keira Richter, and Aidan Clarke. The relationships built between players and their peer coaches extend beyond the court and prove to be valuable for everyone involved.
“I think coaching has allowed the players and I to share a connection over something I do and love. I really enjoy sharing that with them and watching them play,” student coach and guard on the girls’ varsity basketball team Cassidy O’Brien said.
Ultimately, the resurfacing of EL unified sports teams has created and will continue to create togetherness and unity throughout ELHS, as it provides inclusivity for students in need of more representation.
