MONROE, CT — Whether it is basketball, soccer or track and field, Unified Sports is well-established at Masuk High. Add cheerleading to the fun and excitement for athletes with special needs who get the chance to shine in their own competitions with help from their peers.
“Masuk High School has a wonderful Unified Sports program that students have enjoyed for the past few years,” said Diane Gaber, Masuk’s head cheer coach who got a Unified Cheer program up and running this school year.
“Inspired by the incredible energy and joy I witnessed during a Unified Cheer exhibition at a competition last year, I knew Masuk needed to offer this opportunity to our students,” she added. “Seeing the smiles, enthusiasm, and teamwork on display, I was determined to bring a Unified Cheer program to our school.”
Gaber presented the idea to Masuk Director of Student Support Services Jenn Parsell, who immediately embraced it.
“With her support and the enthusiasm of my assistant coaches, Jackie Bennett and Marissa Esteves — both of whom work in special education — the Masuk Unified Cheer program was born,” Gaber said. “Together, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where students of all abilities can experience the joy of cheerleading, build friendships, and share their school spirit.”
“Seeing them interact with each other is great.” Esteves said. “It’s so rewarding. It’s beautiful. It’s more than a sport — it’s amazing. It teaches everyone unity.”
A registered program of Special Olympics, Unified Cheer helps foster new friendships, builds confidence, promotes inclusion, and supports the development of gross motor skills, coordination, self-discipline, teamwork and sportsmanship for children with all abilities, the coaches said.
This program is open to students in grades K-12, providing a unique opportunity for athletes of all ages to come together, learn, and grow as a team.
The Masuk varsity cheerleaders serve as Unified partners and play a valuable role in this program. They work closely with the Unified athletes, teaching basic tumbling skills, cheer motions, and dance techniques while providing encouragement and mentorship. Their involvement has been instrumental in making this program a success.
“It’s really nice to see how we can grow as a team and bond with each other,” Masuk varsity cheer captain Zuma Soriano said of working with Unified team members.
“They have all the skills. It’s nice seeing how it’s come together since earlier in the season,” added fellow varsity cheer captain Chloe DuBois.
Masuk’s Unified Cheer team had the exciting opportunity to perform at the Oxford Sprint Spectacular, showcasing their hard work and enthusiasm. “Their performance was met with incredible support, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they have accomplished in such a short time,” Gaber said.
Gaber added that the hope is for Unified Cheer to continue growing. Unified Cheer continues through the end of April with competitions and the squad is already looking ahead to expanding the program and starting up again in the fall, “ensuring that more students have the opportunity to experience the joy, teamwork and empowerment that Unified Cheer brings,” Gaber said.
Masuk’s Roster
Amelia Boyarski
Daniela Cabral
Penelope Camacho
Marcie Clark
Valentina DiScala
Manuela Faria
Cameron Jones
Jocelyn Jones
McGyver Leaf
Marilyn Westphal
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