Basketballs bounce against the gym floor, flanked by bleachers filled with fans. However, the fierce competition of a typical Strath Haven basketball game is absent.
This is Unified Basketball, which began last year after parents reached out to the Haven basketball staff to begin the program. Unified Basketball attempts to create a more inclusive environment for kids with special needs or developmental disabilities. Strath Haven already has a Unified Bocce program.
“Last year it was, ‘Let’s see how this goes and see if it works, let’s see if we can run with it.’ It took off. Everyone had a great experience,” Unified Basketball and varsity basketball coach Mr. Kevin Haney said.
While most of the rules are the same, not a single travel or foul was called against Strath Haven or Marple Newtown throughout the entire final game of the season on Tuesday, November 12.
“The rules are very loose. It’s just a chance to enjoy the game, make some connections, and have a whole lot of fun,” Haney said.
Throughout the game, players would even hand the ball to members of the other team in effort to let everybody make a basket.
“It’s very fun. It’s very collaborative,” senior Ian Cheshire said.
The game was proclaimed a tie by Wallingford Elementary School teacher and game announcer Dan Fantozzi after many Strath Haven players, including sophomore Adam Zdilla, made baskets.
“It was epic. I like trying to go fast as I tried to shoot the ball to the hoop. I was like, ‘Oh, please work,’ and I barely did. I jumped for joy,” Zdilla said.
Strath Haven also celebrated their four seniors, Ian Cheshire, Luke D’Ancona, Ryan Killeen, and Lara Bruno, with goodie baskets.
“The cheer team and cheer squad being here was pretty cool,” Bruno said. “My first senior night was with the cheer team and then I got this senior night. It was seriously cool.”
The game against Marple marked the only home game for Strath Haven. All four previous games of the season took place at the Haverford School.
“It’s been an incredible opportunity to get to know some kids that we otherwise don’t really see in the hallways all the time or on the basketball court,” Haney said.
Players wished other Strath Haven teams the best of luck as winter sports began.
“Go Haven Panthers,” Bruno said.
