Superintendent Michael S. Nelson, Principal Michael Devoll, Athletic Director Chris Carrig, and Unified Bulldogs Basketball Team Coach Emma Fenton recently recognized and celebrated the Old Rochester Regional High School (ORRHS) Unified Basketball Team for its perfect 2023 season.
On Friday, October 18, Principal Devoll, Director Carrig, and Coach Fenton presented a banner commemorating the Unified Basketball Team’s undefeated season at a pep rally with all ORRHS students present.
“Congratulations to our talented Unified Basketball team on their impressive season” Superintendent Nelson said. “Thank you to Principal Devoll, Director Carrig, and Coach Fenton for their amazing work in providing this special recognition for our players. It’s times like these that we see and feel the positive impact of inclusivity and comradery amongst our wonderful students and staff.”
During the pep rally, students made several handmade posters to cheer on the Unified Basketball Team on their success. Throughout the event, members of the team ran through the banner in celebration of their undefeated season and received many high-fives from peers.
“The Unified Bulldogs embody the value of dedication and hard work” Athletic Director Carrig said. “Teamwork and the joy that comes with it are on full display in everything they do, and I couldn’t be prouder of the success they’ve earned.”
The Unified Sports program in Massachusetts, run by Special Olympics Massachusetts in partnership with the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association, allows students with disabilities the opportunity to play high school sports alongside their peers in a fun and supportive environment.
“The team is truly something special and to see their hard work and dedication recognized is amazing,” Coach Fenton said. “Opportunities like this really promote inclusion and give our Unified athletes credit for their accomplishments. While the wins are impressive – the banner truly represents the power of Unified Sports where every student, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to shine and contribute.”
“Our Unified Basketball team represents all that is great about interscholastic sports,” said Principal Devoll. “They demonstrate teamwork, determination, positivity, and passion throughout their season. Congratulations to the players and Coach Fenton.”
