Everyone Deserves to Play

by Copy Editor Tatem Petet and staffer Mia Ivan

Stretching, ball handling and position work starts the Northstars’ practice, just like any other basketball team.

The Northstars are a large group of disabled people of all ages who build community and friendship around sports.

“Our Special Olympics team for the district, we have swimming, basketball, track, softball, bocce and bowling,” Northstar sponsor Emma Bastarache said.

The Northstars want to make everyone feel included.

“Everyone has the right to play and then I also give them a chance to like, make friends because exercise gives them a chance to learn how to play sports,” Bastarache said.

This program was not always a part of the school district.

“There was a Northstars Special Olympic Team, coached at the Y by now retired teacher, Karen Jones.

There was no affiliation with the district. I joined her as assistant coach and began pursuing district backing,” co-sponsor Pam Rohlfing said.

There are multiple adults who coach or volunteer to support the Northstars program.

“My dad has been assistant coaching basketball for a couple of years now,” Bastarache said. “Then if I ever need some more help [my brothers] will come to a practice and help out.”

The Special Olympics can be very freeing for the players.

“It’s very fun and it’s very energetic and you get to get your energy out,” Northstar player Kevin Hacker said.

The Special Olympics also improved overall well being.

“[It helps] me to be more productive. Instead of just… like sitting on a couch and doing nothing,” Northstars athlete Gaige Woltheys said.

Special Olympics creates life-long bonds, for coaches and players alike.

“Love the athletes, love the unified partners, love the families,” Rohlfing said.

Special Olympics can be an outlet for the players.

“It makes me feel happy,” Woltheys said. “And to just escape from the real world.”

The Special Olympics program is not just about sports, it also focuses on building community. Relation ships are a huge part of all sports. Many players said the friendships they made were the most valuable part of being on the team.

“I just love being with the kids. I teach special ed, but I like having a chance to like actually do fun things, right? Like instead of just math.” Bastarache said.

Special Olympics is not only re warding for the players.

“Every person deserves an op portunity to participate in sports,” Rohlfing said. “Every single one.”

Northstars are looking for a help ing hand. The practices are weekly and count as community service as well as A+ hours. If interested, email emma.bastarache@nkc schools.org.

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