The Unified basketball team opened their third season on April 17 with the typical excitement that surrounds their club.

The Unified Sports program, which began in the spring of 2012, consists of special education students and a group of regular students called ‘partners.’

“They make friends. The partners that participate with us build friendships, and I think that is the most impactful part of it.” Nora Boettcher, Special Education teacher, and Puma Pals co-advisor, said, “They also are proud that they get to participate in high school sports.”

While the friendships the students make and the memories of playing continue long after the last game, a new year and a new season means change.

“This year we have more freshmen,” Boettcher said.

This will be the first time those students will be able to experience playing a sport for their school. However, there is a challenge in filling previous senior ‘partners’ shoes, but Boettcher expresses her confidence in the current senior abilities to make this season a memorable one.

“The team will have six practices under their belt before their first game,” said head coach Jody Shagena.

The team relies on partners and players dedication and support for the team to fully prepare for the first game.

The support for the team stretches out far past the back corner of the C building. Principal Dan Serrano, who studied special education in college and worked in the field for many years, is a large supporter of the Unified Sports program. In fact, CUSD was one of the first districts in Ariz. to partner with the Special Olympics and PHS was one of the first schools to participate, Serrano said.

At first, the Pumas participated only in basketball, but have since made flag football and track and field teams as well.

The basketball team is scheduled to play three more regular season games, as well as one tournament. Their next game is against Poston Butte on May 1, and later Basha, then Coolidge.

The program gives all students on campus a chance to participate in sports.

Boettcher has a few expectations for the season.

“I hope that they have a good competitive spirit and they have fun, and continue to make connections with other kids on campus,” Boettcher said.