Masuk Free Press

On Wednesday, October 9th, Masuk’s unified sports team participated in their soccer matchup against the Joel Barlow Falcons in the Masuk gymnasium. However, this game was different. The goal was to pack the stands with Masuk students and staff in order to show their support for unified sports!

Although the program has had past events, there hasn’t been as much advertising for a unified sports match compared to this Wednesday. Starting Monday, athletic director, Brian Hourigan sent multiple emails to staff aiming to spread the word, and even creating t-shirts for the players to wear. On top of reaching out to staff, Masuk’s Red Army has advertised this as well, highlighting their “Inclusion for Everyone” message. When asked, Donald Casey, the director of unified sports, responded, “This event was so big because we are really spreading inclusion throughout the community. Here at Masuk, they started a unified sports physical education class, and that has really promoted inclusion.”

Multiple sports teams showed their Masuk pride by attending this event. Cheer, girls volleyball, boys basketball, as well as some field hockey players were in the stands cheering. 

The game started with the warm ups as the players from each team took to court with enthusiasm. Masuk’s Brooke wearing #20 scored the first goal of the game, igniting cheers from the crowd. Goalie, Sam wearing #48, displayed outstanding defense and confidence throughout the match. When complimented he grinned saying, “I know.”

Tom, wearing #4, also made an impact on the court, not only with his skills but his infectious energy among his team. Throughout the match, he could’ve easily been named the most hyped as well as most loved by the crowd. He kept the energy up throughout the game, cheering and jumping around no matter who scored. 

The Barlow Falcons had exceptional offense. #52 displayed impressive speed, making for some tough competition. With his quick footwork, he sped through defenders. Once he had the ball, there was no stopping him from bringing it home! 

The crowd only grew louder as the event went on, cheering for both Masuk as well as Barlow, making the players more excited. With every defensive or offensive play, you best believe there was a cheer following it. Students made the cheers interactive; including the wave as well as repeating cheers. 

The match lasted a total of 20 minutes and they finished the afternoon with pizza and snacks handed out by the Unified Sport coordinators. Players from both teams got to meet with their opponent, parents, as well as masuk students. 

The event seemed to have a great show out and they plan to have more like this. “As a matter of fact, our unified sports team in our middle school was recently selected as the unified sport national champions.” Says Casey. 

Unified sports has grown immensely within the last year. With the first and most definitely not the last packed sporting event!