By James Bonney

Unified Sports Program Coordinator Deirdre Burke discusses game plans with the GHS Unified sports teams on senior night. Mar 16, 2026 Photo: James Bonney
Under the bright lights in the Greenwich High School gymnasium, the Unified Sports Senior Night took on a slightly different but equally spirited format this year.
Two Unified teams faced off against each other in a celebratory basketball matchup.
With no visiting school, the focus remained squarely on community, inclusion, and honoring the seniors who have helped build the program into what it is today under the leadership of Deirdre Burke.
The game featured plenty of energy and enthusiasm, with both sides showcasing the teamwork and sportsmanship that define Unified Sports. Players rotated in and out to cheers from the crowd, and every basket, assist, and defensive stop was met with applause. Rather than a competitive rivalry, the night felt like a shared celebration, with teammates supporting one another regardless of which side of the court they were on.

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

Sam Buck takes a shot assisted by his teammates. Mar 16, 2026 Photo: James Bonney
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the GHS Spirit Team delivered a short performance that energized the gym and brought the crowd to its feet. Their routine highlighted the strong connection between different student groups at the school and reinforced the inclusive nature of the program.
One of the highlights of the night was a lighthearted “pizza box knockout” game, where participants attempted to knock pizza boxes out of each other’s hands in a fast-paced and often hilarious contest.
The game drew laughter from the crowd and provided a fun break from the on-court action, further emphasizing the event’s focus on fun and camaraderie.

The Unified Sports senior night match was full of amazing plays supported by enthusiasm from the audience. March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney
The evening also served as a meaningful sendoff for the program’s seniors: Katie Conrod, Emmett Gannon, Griffin Juergens, Ramzi Si-Ahmed, Max Siefer, Dylan Shedlin, Matthew Sheng, Norah Sullivan, Jamie Valencia, James Whiteside, Mason Jones, and John Phillips.
Each was recognized for their contributions to Unified Sports and the positive impact they have had on their peers. As they prepare to graduate, they leave behind a legacy of inclusion, leadership, and school spirit that will continue to shape the program for years to come.

A collaborative effort to score a basket. Mar 16, 2026 Photo: James Bonney

Griffin Juergens runs the gauntlet at the GHS Unified Sports senior night event. March 16, 2026 Photo: James Bonney

A shot at the basket from Emmet Gannon at GHS Unified Sports senior night. Mar 16, 2026
Photo: James Bonney

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

Greenwich High School’s Unified Sports program held senior night on March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

The Unified Sports senior night match was full of amazing plays supported by enthusiasm from the audience. March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

A crowd-pleasing moment in response to the first basket of the game. March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

The Unified Sports senior night match was full of amazing plays supported by enthusiasm from the audience. March 16, 2026. Photo: James Bonney

The GHS Spirit Team showing up in full force for Unified Sports senior night game. Mar 16, 2026 Photo: James Bonney
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