Unified Sports coaches Marlee Stanley and Joyce Eby recently participated in a panel discussion at the 2025 Unified Champions School Conference.
Coaches Stanley and Eby, Unified Sports coaches for 4, and 7 years respectively, spoke about their experience in integrating Unified Champion Schools into the school culture, creating a more inclusive and positive environment for all students.
Joyce Eby (speaking) Marlee Stanley (right)
Unified Sports programs, like basketball and track at Hingham High School, bring students with and without intellectual disabilities together on the same team. The model is built on the idea that playing together creates a foundation for friendship, understanding, and respect. Beyond competition, these programs help students with disabilities build confidence and make meaningful social connections, while their neurotypical peers gain empathy, broaden their perspectives, and learn the true meaning of inclusion.
Left to Right Meg Melanson, Joyce Eby, MA Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler, Marlee Stanley
“Unified Sports has not only made an impact on the school, but on the entire community as well. To be a part of this is an amazing experience and an opportunity to spread inclusivity to everyone. Since becoming the head coach four years ago, this team has grown significantly, and my love for the team has grown even more,” shared Stanley.
Joyce Eby also commented, "Being named a Unified Champion School is a tremendous honor. This recognition reflects the positive impact of Unified Sports in fostering inclusion and celebrating the joy that comes from bringing people of all abilities together."
“Our Unified Sports program exemplifies what makes HHS such an exemplary school. The staff and student-athletes reflect our core value of inclusion,” said Hingham High Interim Principal Dr. John Buckey.
Together, these efforts show how Unified Sports has become more than a program at Hingham High—it’s part of the school’s identity and a reflection of its commitment to every student.
Student running with SRO Ford with Comfort Dog Opry