Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Athletes from Bishop Moore and Morning Star Catholic schools have come together to form a Unified Sports team, showcasing the power of unity and inclusion. The team, comprised of students from both schools, has been training and competing in various track and field events with the goal of promoting social inclusion and friendship.

Carolista Ware, track and field coach at Bishop Moore, expressed her excitement about the opportunity to develop the Unified team, saying, “I was so excited when they agreed to allow this to happen.” Ware, along with assistant coaches Amy Geltz and Lorraine La Morte, have dedicated their efforts to training the team, which has been practicing every Wednesday since February.

Despite being the team's first year, Ware is thrilled that they qualified for the state competition and emphasized the importance of inclusion and treating every human with dignity. Bishop Moore partner Jillian W. shared her motivation for joining the team, stating, “I love hanging out with all the athletes and showing them what a real team is, showing them inclusion and doing everything through Christ.”

Paige R., another Bishop Moore partner, highlighted the joy of working with Morning Star athletes and spreading the message of inclusion. She expressed her happiness in seeing the Morning Star students succeed and accomplish things they may have thought they couldn't do. Colt, one of the Morning Star athletes, is looking forward to showcasing his skills at the state championship, while Gabby credited her success to her Bishop Moore partner for making the experience “fun and easy.”

Unified Sports has not only brought the athletes together but has also strengthened the bond between the two schools. Thomas Doyle, president of Bishop Moore and Morning Star, commended the students for their care and support for each other, noting the friendships that have flourished across both campuses.

Alicia Abbey, Morning Star principal, emphasized the alignment of Unified Sports with the principles of the Catholic faith, promoting dignity, respect, compassion, and empathy. Father Roberto Marquez, chaplain of both schools, highlighted the significance of the team in embodying the Gospel values and being a presence of Christ to one another.

Overall, the Unified Sports team from Bishop Moore and Morning Star Catholic schools exemplifies the spirit of unity, inclusion, and mutual support, showcasing the power of coming together for a common goal.