Members of our unified sports teams – basketball and bowling – were recognized by the board of education at its May 6 meeting.
“Unified sports show us what we have in common,” said Jen Evans, the district’s athletic director. “It teaches us that everyone deserves a place on the team. We challenge each other, we support one another and we celebrate together.”
Pine Bush High School teacher and unified bowling coach Mike Terwilliger agreed. “Unified sports are truly the epitome of how athletics should be,” he said.
He will see colleagues during the day and they may not be having the best day. “I tell them to come to one of our events. I promise you won’t leave without a smile on your face. The joy these kids have is infectious.”
Melyssa Amelio said this is her third year coaching unified basketball. “I can honestly say it is the most rewarding experience I’ve ever had,” she said. “Unified basketball has a special place in my heart, not just because of the game but because of the special people who make up the team, both players and helpers.”
Coach Mel, as she is known, said the team has such enthusiasm and competitiveness. “They are inspiring to watch. They are so kind. They are the most thoughtful individuals I’ve met. Thank you to all for making this the most incredible experience.”
Congratulations to our varsity unified athletes for yet another year of accomplishment, tenacity, fun and so much joy!
Unified Basketball
Coach: Melyssa Amelio
- Tyler Adams
- Jonathan Blake
- Ciena DeJesus
- Emily Higgins
- Jesnel Jean
- Alessandra Krasevec
- Maya Martinez
- Patrick Matarazza
- Krishna Ramnarine
- Yoland Rafaeil
- Anthony Romano
- Jeffrey Saint Hilaire
- Sneha Zindani
Unified Bowling
Coach: Michael Terwilliger
- Tyler Adams
- Alexander Cepeda
- Emily Higgins
- Jesnel Jean
- Joseph Kempsey
- Alessandra Krasevec
- Patrick Matarazza
- Christian Oliveras
- Alanna Page
- Avery Phillips
- Krishna Ramnarine
- Sophia Vansickle
The Unified Sports Program is a collaboration between the New York State Public High School Athletic Association and Special Olympics New York. According to the NYSPHSAA website, the three main components of Project Unify are: To combine athletes with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team and contribute their own unique skills; to provide leadership opportunities to students and to provide opportunities for all students to participate in school-wide campaigns and activities.