Teamwork emphasized on CCHS Special Olympics basketball team
Central Crossing’s Emoni Braxton (43) and Matt Greene (34) work together to move the ball up the court in front of Worthington’s Jordan Berger (1) during a special olymics basketball game on Feb. 1. Buy This Photo
Some Central Crossing High School special needs students are building teamwork skills while participating in the school’s recently created Special Olympics basketball team.
“We wanted something fun for them to do outside of school,” Special Olympics coordinator Mandy Corbett said.
Eight players joined the program, which is in its first year. Corbett said she wants more students to join next year. The coed team has members ages 16 to 21.
The basketball team helps players focus on being physically fit. Students also learn teamwork, how to take direction, and how to share responsibilities. In class, the students work on keeping a schedule. The team practices and games are “a good practical use of that,” Corbett said.
The participation helps them feel like they are a part of something within the school.
“They get so excited to see other kids in the school coming out to support them,” Corbett said.
About 100 people came to the team’s first game. Students and teachers attended a December game against Westland High School’s Special Olympics team, the only other high school team within the South-Western City School District.
Molly St. Pierre, a special education teacher who volunteers for the team, said participating students get a chance to work with other students they might not normally spend time with.
“I think it’s great for them,” she said. Parents also have been supportive, watching their children in the games and getting involved.
CCHS student Josh Sims, 18, said this is his first time playing on a basketball team.
“You can hang out with all your friends,” he said.
Sims said he enjoys passing the ball to other people during games.
“I’m a good team player,” he said.
The CCHS students will play at Westland High School at 7 p.m. on Feb. 14. The season will end later this month.
Participation is free. Those interested in participating next year should contact CCHS at (614) 801-6500 in early November. Students will begin practice for next season in December.
