Newtown High School hosted the first Special Olympics Unified Sports South-West Conference Tournament on March 18. The event brought together unified sports basketball teams from host Newtown, as well as Joel Barlow of Redding, Bethel, and Bunnell of Stratford.

Following a parade of athletes, Julia Bogdanoff sang the National Anthem. Each of the squads followed with The Unified Sports Oath, led by Garrett Fitzpatrick: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” Then the games began.

A round-robin tourney format allowed for each of the four teams to play every opposing school in fun-filled yet competitive games. The contests were officiated and fans and cheerleaders supported and encouraged participants from each school. Partners who assist the athletes helped with rebounding and passing, but the unified players did all of the scoring — several sinking shots from long range or using impressive moves to get to the basket. Athletes also shared the ball, and displayed strong teamwork and sportsmanship. They even offered a helping hand to opponents at times of need during the action; yet there was still plenty of competitive spirit as evidenced by blocked shots and hustle all over the court.

Jason “J” Edwards, the voice of Newtown High athletes, provided colorful commentary throughout each of the contests. The public address announcer, as he does with the varsity games, let fans know who scored every basket and added clever/motivational comments during the action. A halftime dance break gave the participants a chance to show off their moves and let loose without the basketball.

Those who also helped make the event possible include: Nick Rubino and Kira Flynn, students who lead the Newtown High Blue Blaze squad; Newtown High Athletic Director Gregg Simon; scorekeeper Jennifer Huettner, Unified Spirit Team Coach Susan Bridges and the cheerleaders; Athletic Trainer Sabrina Byrne, Newtown High nurses Anne Dalton and Karen Powell, officials Steve Lacour, Robert Dolan, and Tom Baldwin; and volunteers Kristen Tuz, Dawn Tolomeo, Sallie Barlow, Alice Owens, Judy Watts, and Maureen Smith.

Newtown High School’s program is being honored with the Ann Malafronte Rookie School Award from the Special Olympics Unified Sports School Program administered by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference. The recognition is “for demonstrating excellent participation and schoolwide enthusiasm.” The description goes on to say, “Your school’s team and coaches have gone over and beyond to make this year very special for athletes, partners, parents, and school personnel. Your student body has also embraced your Unified Sports team and has helped to change attitudes and change lives.”

The award will be presented at this year’s Michaels Cup Unified Sports Award Banquet at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington.