By Morgan Taulbee
Reflections
Novi HS
1st Place Division 1, Yearbook Verbal
Sports Reporting
JUDGING CRITERIA
- Solid lead that draws reader into story
- Meaningful student quotes that enrich story and reflect effective interviewing
- Evidence of adequate research
- Story gives reader a clear picture of season highlights and outcome with relevant player comments
- Adheres to rules of good journalism including: short paragraphs, effective transitions and use of active voice, freedom from editorial comment, careful editing and proofreading to eliminate mechanical errors, correct use of grammar
The sounds of basketballs bouncing off the gym floor fills the air. The atmosphere is filled with cheers and joy, and for good reason: Novi High School is hosting the first Unified Basketball tournament in the world.
On Feb. 22, the field house gym was filled to the brim with supporters and players of the local Unified Basketball teams. From the cheerleading team to the Cat Pack, tons of students came out to support their peers in what would be a history-making event.
“It was a good-bye for the cheer team because it was our last time cheering with our seniors and current coaches. It was the perfect event because it was so positive and such a good experience,” junior and varsity cheerleader Grace Hocking said.
The unified program gives students with disabilities the opportunity to play with those who don’t. The goal is to promote social inclusion and give kids who might not normally play on athletic teams the chance to be apart of one.
Several local news stations came to cover the games and even interviewed some players, including seniors Trey Mullins and Hunter Goodman.
“It felt good to be interviewed. It was fun,” Goodman said.
The Unified Basketball program has really taken off this year, gaining attention and support from programs such as the Cat Pack, Novi’s student section, who painted signs for the event to cheer on the Novi team on.
“We really wanted to show our Unified players that they are respected and valued in the school environment,” senior Chris Oshana said. “My favorite part of the event was sitting with the team before their game and talking to some of the players. They were nervous and excited to play. Cheering them on was an amazing experience. They played their hearts out.”
The team practiced every Tuesday and has had an impact on tons of students.
“My sister is in the special education program and really wanted me to play on a team with her in order to spend more time with her. I could be having the worst day and go to a team practice or game and it really turns my day around,” senior Jessica Paul said.
The event was a success in the eyes of students and players, and they hope it continues in the future years to come.