At our school, sports have always been an integral part of fostering teamwork, school spirit, and unity. However, one program stands out for the energy, passion, and strategy it brings—Challenger Basketball! Challenger Basketball is a program where students from South’s life-skills program compete in exciting, fast-paced games of basketball, showcasing not only their athleticism but also their incredible perseverance and spirit. However, the ripple effects of Challenger Basketball extend far beyond the court. It has become a cornerstone of our school’s efforts to foster an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and part of the community. On game days this is clearly evident, as the stands are packed with students, faculty, and parents, all coming together to support the athletes. With each game played, we are reminded that sports, at their best, are not just about winning or losing—they are about coming together, supporting one another, and celebrating the incredible diversity of talent and heart within our school. In Challenger Basketball a win for one, is a win for all.
We were given the chance to hear from Challenger Basketball’s own Ms. Ricotta.
Q: How many years have you been directly involved with Challenger Basketball?
I started the Challenger Basketball Program here at South in 2012 with Kelly Meier, who has since retired. Michelle Hoffman has been one of the best additions to the program as a co-adviser throughout the years. The program has been going strong for 11 years now, and it’s been an incredibly rewarding experience. Over the years, we’ve seen the program grow and evolve, providing more opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in basketball and experience the joy of the sport. The support from the community, volunteers, and families has been a huge part of the program’s success. It’s been inspiring to watch participants develop confidence, teamwork, and athletic skills, all while having fun! We are all really proud of how far the program has come.
Q: What, would you say, are some of your best moments throughout your involvement in Challenger Basketball?
The most rewarding experience has been seeing the responses of parents and guardians as they watch their children participate in a sports program. It’s truly heartwarming to see their pride and joy, especially with the support of school peers and staff cheering on their child. It’s amazing to witness the school community come together like that. As the popularity of the program grows, so does the crowd, and it’s been incredible to see how everyone rallies around the participants. The energy and encouragement from everyone involved creates such a positive and inclusive atmosphere. It serves as a reminder of the power of sports and how they bring people together.
Q: How do you feel Challenger Basketball has impacted the school?
In my opinion, as I may be a bit biased, I truly believe the Challenger Basketball Program is one of the best things that South High School has to offer. It’s incredibly inclusive, bringing together students from all walks of life, and the energy it generates is unmatched. The school’s spirit during the season is through the roof, and it’s clear that everyone, from students to staff, looks forward to the Challenger Basketball games. It’s not just about the sport—it’s about the sense of community, pride, and support that fills the gym. It’s amazing to see how the program has fostered such an uplifting and spirited environment at South
.
Q: Lastly, what, if anything, are your future plans with Challenger Basketball?
As of now, I think the Challenger Basketball Program is a well-oiled machine. We’ve really mastered the functionality and organization of the game and everything that goes into it behind the scenes, and it’s been fantastic to see how many clubs have gotten involved over the years. Moving forward, our main goal is to keep the program going strong and continue providing this wonderful opportunity for our athletes. Ideally, we’d love to see the team grow, with more athletes joining in the future. The support has been incredible, and we’re excited to see how the program can continue to evolve and make an even bigger impact on the school community.
