UNITY — It was a spectacular day at Unity Composite High School May 19. The afternoon, before the junior high Snolympics event kicked off, staff and the student body gathered in the gym for provincial banner drops, with an added surprise.
Sask. High School Athletics representatives were on hand to surprise the senior boys' basketball team with this year’s SHSAA Sportsmanship banner.
Jeff Kitts, from SHSAA, said, “Friday night of SHSAA provincial basketball in Osler was an epic back and forth battle between Unity and Fort Qu’Appelle. The atmosphere was electric, and it came down to the final minute. Unity boys won and had the opportunity to compete in the 3A Boys Hoopla final and were guaranteed an SHSAA provincial medal. The final game did not go in Unity’s favour, but the attitude of the team did not stray from the positive, competitive nature. Coaches and players alike maintained their composure and the integrity of the game.”
The principal, Syd Laskowski, from the provincial host school, Osler Valley Christian Academy, said of Unity’s team, “Unity senior boys were a well-coached team who were elated in victory in a tight semifinal, but also gracious in defeat in the final, demonstrated by the respect shown in the last seconds of the game as they were seen shaking hands and congratulating their opponents as they clock ticked down.”
“The 3A boys' basketball final was a demonstration of skill, determination and will, but also one of sportsmanship and respect. It was a game in which the officials commented was an honour to officiate. At the end of the championship the Unity players, coaches, and fans not only congratulated their opponents but shared their appreciation to the hosts and their pride in winning a silver medal. They represented their school and community honourably, which did not go unnoticed, and should be commended.”
After so many aspects related to the pandemic that affected student’s high school experience, Unity Composite High School was elated to celebrate athletic success stories, and this surprise presentation was just one of moments to celebrate.
Four SHSAA provincial banners that included the sports of cross-country running, senior boys' volleyball and both senior girls' and senior boys' basketball medal wins were unveiled and shared with the those in attendance.
That same evening, senior high athletics and their parents were invited to a year-end celebration banquet. UCHS vice-principal and athletics director Ken Parker, says, “We sent a remarkable eight teams to provincials this year, something that has never been seen before. Some kids are multi medal winners in multiple sports, for others this is their first sports success story.”
UCHS says they wanted to try this new format to really give a celebratory feel and experience for Warrior athletes to enjoy together. The evening will include a slide show of each sport and a recollection of how their season transpired. The sports celebration event will encompass all sports,
