Grand Haven Area Public Schools’ Unified Basketball program brings together students with and without disabilities to compete on the same team, emphasizing teamwork, inclusion, and shared experiences. Today’s kickoff event was an exciting first look at that spirit in action—despite a last-minute change to the original plan.
Due to weather-related travel challenges, Grandville was unable to make it to Grand Haven for the game. Rather than letting that slow the momentum, our Unified team adapted by splitting into White and Blue teams to compete against one another as they prepare for the official start of the season next week against West Ottawa.
The Grand Haven High School Field House was filled with cheering students, staff, and friends and family members—so much so that the entire gym felt like one big student section. Fans enthusiastically supported both teams, creating an inclusive, high-energy environment that perfectly reflected the purpose and joy of Unified athletics.
A special thank you to Dr. Cassady Krum, Executive Director of Special Education, and Ally Harder, GHAPS Assistant Special Education Director, for stepping in to coach the White and Blue teams, as well as to GHHS football coaches Coach Naber and Coach Biedenbender for officiating and helping make the experience feel like a true game day for our athletes.
The Unified Basketball season officially begins next week, with upcoming games that are open to the public:
January 20: West Ottawa at GHHS
February 3: GHHS at Hudsonville
February 20: GHHS at Rockford
We look forward to continuing this exciting season and welcoming the community out to support our Unified athletes.
