Unified Basketball brings students together

The Center Moriches High School Unified Basketball recently completed their season.

In the program a total of 29 students with and without disabilities to form a supportive, hardworking team. With help from head coach Katie Ross and assistant coach LisaAnn Zlatniski, the team focused on teamwork, respect, and building friendships. It was a welcoming space where everyone had a chance to grow and be part of something special.

According to the coaches, practices emphasized cooperation and bonding through basketball games and team activities, helping students build friendships and learn to work together on and off the court.

The team played eight games against schools like East Hampton, Southampton, Eastport South Manor, William Floyd, and Riverhead, with an even split of home and away games. The season opened with a “Wishbone Day” Awareness Game, raising support for Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). Team partner Sophia, who lives with OI, helped organize a bake sale for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Students decorated the gym in yellow, made posters and shirts, and Sophia shared her story, highlighting Unified’s mission of inclusion and community impact.

Another highlight was “Little Buddies and Senior Night,” where elementary students joined the pre-game tunnel and halftime fun. The event also recognized graduating seniors Philip “PK” Bechtold, Erin Baldock, and Casey Ennis, who have not only helped grow the Unified program but have inspired others to carry its mission of inclusion forward.

“Their impact on the Unified program will continue to be felt across the school community for years to come,” Zlatniski said.

The season concluded with the Unified Senior All-Star Game at Patchogue-Medford High School, where senior PK Bechtold represented Center Moriches alongside athletes from across Suffolk County, cheered on by his teammates.

At the annual varsity dinner, several Unified players were honored for their hard work and dedication. Sportsmanship Awards were presented to Molly Pantol and Lorenzo Fresa. The Extra Effort Award was given to PK Bechtold and Jaclyn Tietjen, recognizing their outstanding commitment throughout the season.

“The growth of Unified Basketball is made possible by the ongoing support of the Board of Education, administrators, faculty, staff, the Special Education Department, paraprofessionals, and dedicated families,” Zlatniski added. “Unified Basketball is more than a team—it’s a welcoming space where students build relationships, learn new skills, and feel connected to their school community.”