THE LYNNFIELD and North Reading Unified basketball teams played a great game in front of an electric crowd in the first unified hoops game held at LHS. (Courtesy Photo)

 

 

After press time:
Lynnfield defeats Triton 36-30 (Oct. 23)

 

LYNNFIELD — For the first time ever, Lynnfield High hosted a Unified Basketball game on Oct. 16 when they welcomed North Reading to town.

Both teams were cheered on by an incredible crowd as the Pioneers and Hornets added a new chapter to their sports history.

“The game was a great example of how all the students support one another,” said LHS special education teacher Christine Herbert. “The energy was high and to hear the students in the stands cheer and support all the students on the court was heartwarming and so amazing to watch.”

The fans witnessed some incredible displays of teamwork and great basketball.

For the Pioneers, Charlie Cumming and Sahil Patel played well inside; Ella Doherty played hard; Rachel Perrin both sang the National Anthem and had a strong game. Gianna Micieli, Chase Cail, Charlie  Verdile, Isabella Ruoco and Ereeny Georges all made contributions to the team.

“The game was very competitive. Both teams’ players did amazing things on the court,” said Lynnfield coach Sue Breen. “What is really impressive about Unified Sports, is that the crowd and players all cheer for both teams.”

That sentiment rang true for players, coaches and parents alike.

“I’m just so proud of Rachel and the entire team,” said Julie Perrin of her daughter Rachel Perrin and the Pioneers.

“It was a really exciting atmosphere to have so many members of the student body on hand to cheer on our team,” agreed Breen. “In school the next day, many students asked when the next home game was going to be.”

Both teams took a photo together after the game and Mr. Micieli provided ice cream from his ice cream truck, much to the delight of the many students, teachers and families who attended the game.

“We really appreciate all the support,” said Breen. “We would like to publicly thank the Lynnfield Athletic Association for providing the sweatshirts for our players.”

Lynnfield’s next and last home game of the season will be on Wednesday, Oct. 23 at 3:30 p.m. They will travel to Reading on Monday, Nov. 4 at 4 p.m.