Sandwich unified track comes together to capture first Division 2 title; Natick completes three-peat
'This is my family,' Sandwich's Faith Foy said.
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After finishing second last spring, Sandwich broke through with 86 points. Duxbury placed second with 71, and Braintree was third with 68. Unified sports are inclusive programs that bring together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to promote inclusion, build friendships, and offer a fun and supportive environment for all participants, according to the MIAA.
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Natick captured its
'It's a really special accomplishment for our team,' Natick coach Nick DiAntonio said. 'It means a lot to us. We've definitely set the bar high, and our kids are responding to it well.'
Host Natick has won three straight state titles.
Trevor Hass
DiAntonio said it's a selective process. Close to 80 people applied to be partners this year, and the Redhawks also relied on nearly 80 volunteers from around the school to help the event run smoothly and efficiently.
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They joked around and tossed footballs on the field in their downtime. Then, when it was time to race, the Redhawks left no doubt.
'It's a total team accomplishment,' DiAntonio said. 'We have an exceptional group of partners and athletes. I think what really sets our team apart is the bonds that we have.'
Duxbury took second at Division 2 states after placing first at sectionals.
Trevor Hass
Bryan Polanco made his mark for Sandwich. After falling during his 100-meter dash, he got right back up and completed the 4x100. Avaya Mills excelled in many events and was particularly sharp in the 800.
Partners Caitlyn Smith and Sophie Palmer said that when the Blue Knights fall, they help one another bounce back and celebrate even the smallest victories.
'Just don't give up and don't doubt yourself,' Sandwich energizer Noah DeOrsey said.
Holyoke catalyst Yedxael 'Yeyo' Ruiz put on a show in the 100.
Trevor Hass
One of many other bright spots on the day was effervescent Holyoke 14-year-old Yedxael 'Yeyo' Ruiz, who sported a massive grin and showed off his green braces as he wheeled to the finish line in the 100.
His teammates, coaches, and supporters chanted 'Ye-yo! Ye-yo! Ye-yo!' as he came off the track. When Ruiz got his moment in the sun, he didn't squander it.
'My name is Yeyo,' he said, still grinning with pride. 'I am from Holyoke, Massachusetts. I won.'
Duxbury took second at Division 2 states after placing first at sectionals.
Trevor Hass
Trevor Hass can be reached at
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Boston Globe
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