Since launching in Nassau County in 2014, Unified Sports, which join students with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team, have grown into a thrivingmodel of inclusion.
At Syosset High School, the Unified Basketball team has been going strong for four seasons, and the Unified Bowling team for three. Each program includes 30 to 40 students who participate annually, offering opportunities for friendship, learning, and athletic competition
“We focus on teaching our student-athletes how to be part of a sports team, working together and cultivating sportsmanship,” said Greg Cardona, coach of the Syosset Unified Basketball team.
For many students, the experience is as much about connection as competition.
“I enjoy playing Unified Basketball because I get to spend time with my friends,” Syosset student-athlete Scott Marmor said.
The Nassau County Unified Basketball league has 13 teams competing in two conferences, north and south. The season runs from April to June with each team playing six regular-season games, three home and three away. It concludes with the Unified Basketball Culminating Event, a postseason-style tournament that determines conference champions.
Cardona, who has also been the head coach for the Syosset boys’ varsity basketball team for the past 13 years, spoke about the value of the school community around the unified sports teams.
“Our community support is fantastic,” Cardona said. “Students come to watch games, and our administration is always at our home games. It’s great to see.”
As a health education teacher and leader of a peer leadership elective, Cardona said he enjoys seeing his students develop life skills both in the classroom and on the court.
“Seeing our student-athletes come out of their comfort zone and try new things is amazing,” Cardona said. “They become part of a team and learn the value of teamwork, dedication and commitment to practice.
Source: LI Press
