New Varsity Team Takes the Court
A new varsity team is stepping on the court at the Secondary School this spring season. Manhasset is excited to announce the launch of its Unified Basketball Team sponsored by the Special Olympics.
Senior Mark DeGaudenzi came up with the idea to bring this Special Olympics program to Manhasset. He spearheaded the effort with student Ryan Krug to make competitive sports available to all students. The team practices twice a week and is led by coach Karalyn Murphy, with the help of special education teacher assistants Gerard Fay, Elaine Goodwin, Angela Barba and Kevin Larke.
The Unified Sports Club serves as the team’s support system, helping to plan related inclusion and anti-bullying campaigns and cheering on the student-athletes during their games. Advisor Melissa Slobin says the creation of this team promotes social inclusion and builds a greater school community.
“Our Unified Basketball Team unites a number of students on one team,” she said. “The goal and driving principal is that playing together on the same team will develop a path to friendship.”
Additionally, the team is connecting with the community through this new opportunity. The Unified Sports Club teamed up with Spectrum Designs, a custom apparel and promotional business with a social mission, to design and print t-shirts for the team’s fans. Spectrum Designs creates inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, including DeGaudenzi’s brother, Nicholas.
The Manhasset community is invited to fill the stands and cheer on the team at its upcoming games:
- May 10, 5 p.m. home game against Locust Valley.
- May 12, 5 p.m. home game against New Hyde Park.
- May 16, 5 p.m. home game against Garden City.
- May 19, 5 p.m. away game at Carle Place.
- June 2, 5 p.m. away game at Floral Park.
We are excited to expand our athletic opportunities and look forward to the team’s success this season!