The bleachers at Hersey High School were abuzz. Chatter filled the air, greetings of students and teachers, parents and friends. As the Special Olympics team prepared for their basketball game, excitement filled the air.
Before their first play the athletes were each handed a blue flower to give their parents as a thank you, and after smiles and hugs, the singing of the national anthem began.
Amongst the BHS athletes were peer coaches, who consisted either of volunteers or the varsity girls basketball team.
Before the first play, the athletes were called by name and ran out between lines of supporters such as coaches, peer coaches, and even Bronco Billy.
Coach Jessica Surprenant spoke about the joy in this event, which was displayed on the faces of the athletes as they ran towards their teammates, smiling.
“I think it really gives our Special Olympics athletes the same opportunities and experiences that it gives to all the other students in the school building,” Surprenant said.
As the game began, athletes bounced from one side of the court to the other; a close game.
When a shot was scored, everyone cheered. When a shot was missed, everyone sighed in a disappointed sympathy. It didn’t matter the school, every point was a win. When a shot was missed and one of the taller athletes caught it, they would often hand it to their teammate for another go.
By the end of the first quarter, Barrington was ahead of District 214, 20-2. By the second quarter, the scores were closer, with Barrington still leading with 22–16.
Scattered throughout the stands, parents FaceTimed family and friends, sharing the game with those who couldn’t be there.
After half-time, in which music played and teams got together to support each other and chat, the energy in the room was lively. The game was on, and five minutes in, BHS and district 214 were tied.
The rest of the evening was filled with screeching sneakers and cheers, the thudding of the ball on the court and names thrown into the air in support.
By the time the game ended, District 214 had bested Barrington at a close 40–32. Applauds erupted, and athletes cheered, soon greeting friends and parents.
Before leaving, all teams crossed the court to shake hands, ending the night of a truly good game.
