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Date: 11/30/2023
AGAWAM — Unified basketball is played a little differently than traditional basketball, but the thrill of competition, the sportsmanship and the loud cheers from the crowd in the Agawam High School gym are identical.
What makes it different is that special education students are paired with their general education peers.
“This gives special education students who have a range of disabilities the ability to play a high school varsity sport, but modified to fit their needs, skill level and knowledge of basketball,” said Laura Sapelli, a special education paraprofessional at the school and a former AHS basketball player.
Involved with the program since it started several years ago, Sapelli said the structure also creates social interactions with peers — something not always available for special education students. Some students participate independently while others may need extra support on the court.
The team ratio is three special education students to two peer students, who assist them on the court as needed. Sapelli said her role at the games is similar to what she and her colleagues do in the classroom. They help facilitate the needs of special education athletes while assisting head coach Eric Balslov.
“It’s truly an awesome experience to work with these kids in the classroom and outside the classroom,” Sapelli said.
Games are played from mid-September to mid-November, before the start of the varsity basketball season. Unified basketball — the only unified sport currently at AHS — is open to all students, with no tryouts or knowledge of the sport required.
At the team’s last home game recently, 10 seniors were honored during pregame ceremonies. Cheerleaders, the school’s football team and many general education students came out to celebrate these players as each one went to center court for a high five from Balslov.
While varsity basketball players practice daily and play two to four 90-minute games a week in season, the unified team practices once or twice per week and has one game each week. Practices last an hour and games run about 45 minutes.
Balslov said the time commitment is designed not to overwhelm special education students.
“The goal is to have general education students partner and assist the special education student athletes throughout the season,” Balslov said.
Unified basketball largely follows the rules of traditional basketball, with some minor adaptations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all players.
“Our range of student needs also vary — not just from team to team, but also among our own team players,” said Balslov. “What’s challenging for one student might not be for another.”
A physical education teacher at Doering School, Balslov has been the unified team’s coach since the program began in 2018. Many players were his students as fifth and sixth graders. He loves seeing some of the unified athletes take on the role of partners to help others out.
“Encouraging our players to help each other out can be a way to challenge them in appropriate ways. For others, getting them a basket at some point in the game is enough of a challenge,” he said. “We do our best to make it developmentally appropriate and create as many success opportunities as possible.”
The benefits of the program are apparent in the praise from several players and parents.
“Unified is so much fun and it really makes you find joy in the little things,” said Isabella Oliveira. “Athletes all get so happy making a shot — we need to be more like that. Building connections with them and learning about their abilities is really fun, too.”
Mia Canavan said the program has given her the opportunity to develop her patience.
“Just because some people take different steps to achieve their goals doesn’t mean it’s the wrong way. Unified has shown me how connected we all truly are, physical or mental differences aside,” Canavan said.
Danielle Wagoner, mother to twins Connor and Patrick Wagoner, said the program is more than just playing basketball.
“It’s about inclusion, teamwork, pride and friendship,” Wagoner said. “It’s rewarding for both players and peers. It brings parents together and cultivates camaraderie as we all cheer for each player from the bleachers. The games bring the whole school community together. You can’t help but feel uplifted and inspired by the power of inclusion for all.”
Irene Birch said the program is “a great opportunity” for people with disabilities to play basketball.
“You can have fun and be with other students, friends and fans who come to love and support the unified team,” said Birch.
Hannah Morris said unified basketball has helped build her confidence.
“It makes me feel strong and powerful,” Morris said. “I know if I practice and try my best, I can do anything. I love it when the crowd cheers.”
Doris Smith, an AHS graduate whose son Garrett plays on the team, said when she was in school, a program like unified basketball didn’t exist.
“I’m very grateful it does now. Time has changed for the best for these children with special needs,” she said. “Garrett has been playing for the past four years. Not only has he gained increased confidence, but he has gained more friendships.”
Balslov said watching students have fun, improve throughout the season and belong to a team is something he values and finds rewarding.
“It can sometimes be challenging to put students into positions to be successful, but we always get there,” he said. “Even if a student struggles to score a basket they can still impact the game in a positive way and walk out with a positive experience.”