In a dazzling display of sportsmanship, teamwork, relentless determination and great fun, the Lyons Central School District and Newark Central School District Unified Basketball Teams played an incredible game on Friday, May 17 at the Lyons Community Center.
The Lyons Lions — a team that includes Elisamuel Inostroza (No. 14, Grade 12), Olivia Caulkins (No. 31, Grade 10), Marcus Graham (No. 10, Grade 10), Sean Hall (No. 5, Grade 10), Jeremy Wheeler (No. 22, Grade 10), Kameko Young (No. 13, Grade 10), Dezmond Ortiz (No. 1, Grade 9), Selena Reynolds (No. 3, Grade 9) — took on the Newark Reds in front of a full house at the LCC.
After reaching a tie of 27-27 at the end of the fourth quarter, the two teams went into an exciting overtime that concluded with Newark taking home the win 33-29.
It was a game, and a union of so many students and staff, that Lyons Superintendent Dr. Matt Barr said he won’t soon forget.
“As an educator, there are some days that you just know you will remember for your entire career,” Dr. Barr said. “Today was one of those days. Seeing the Unified Basketball student-athletes from Lyons and Newark participating in front of their peers was truly inspiring. It was a powerful reminder of teamwork, inclusivity, and the joy of coming together.”
Lyons CSD is, without a doubt, a school that loves basketball — and what an incredible experience it was to see the entire MS/HS student body cheering on their peers and showcasing the principles that we value: positivity, hope, and happiness.
“I couldn't be prouder of our students and our staff,” Dr. Barr said. “A special thank you to Coach Eric Kuhn, Zac Young, Renee Schott, Cesar Ortiz, the Newark School District, and everyone involved in making today a success. Your efforts made this day possible.”
At Lyons, when we talk about the motto Restore the Roar and how special Lyons is, it is days like today that remind us we are on the right track. Congratulations to our athletes and thank you to our students, staff and community for your passionate support of this endeavor.