The first Unified Bocce match of the season took place on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, when the Chargers took on the Comets from Abington Heights. Bocce is a game of skill and strategy and no matter one’s ability they can find success in this sport. Offering two Unified teams allows for more students to participate and continues to spread the message of inclusion within our school. The team is made up of 14 students with and without intellectual and physical disabilities that are partnered on to one team. The Chargers took the win that evening with a score of 3-1. “The Unified team is looking forward to the regional championships which will be held in March where they hopefully can defend their crown and finally get to the state championship,” noted Coach Samantha Masco. “Our team received a generous donation from the Carbondale Chapter of UNICO National that will be used for apparel and supplies as well as help to fund our trip to the state championship. We cannot thank them enough for their generosity in helping to make unified sports a new thriving chapter in CA history.”
Captains Mackenzie Edgar and Amber Ogonowski enjoyed the experience. “I enjoy playing Unified Bocce, and I am happy I can be a part of such a great team,” Edgar noted. “I enjoy working with other student athletes.” Ogonowski was very happy with the victory. “I was excited to win our first match this year. I can’t wait until Carbondale’s next match.”
The Carbondale Area School District thanks all of the participating athletes, Coach Masco, the staff volunteers, the Carbondale Chapter of Unico, and those who came out to show their support of Unified sports here at CA as we work to promote inclusion in our schools.
