The Binghamton High School unified basketball team has had an incredible season, but the team’s success on the court is only the start.
The Unified basketball team is coached by David Springer, who is also head coach of the school's Varsity basketball team. On the Unified team, typical student athletes and student athletes with special needs play on a basketball team together. The program not only teaches players the fundamentals of the sport, but also, important lessons about inclusiveness, friendship, and understanding.
“They are really excited. Sometimes on game day its actually hard to get them to concentrate on anything else. They just cant wait for the game. It's really been a tremendously positive force for them,” PALS teacher John Sweeney said.
Sweeney spoke about how the program gives students with special needs a unique opportunity to connect with their typical peers. Through this experience, the general education students have become even more accepting, empathetic and understanding.
"Our PALS students walk the hallways and get high fives and praise from their classmates," Sweeney said. "They are receiving really positive and appropriate attention."
Click here to view WBNG's coverage of the program.