The Cranston East unified volleyball team wrapped up another fun fall season and took second place at last week’s state championships in Providence. The Bolts finished in first place in the Metropolitan Division in the regular season before beating rival West in the semifinals to earn a spot in the championship against Mt. Pleasant.
“The kids were very excited. They were excited to get to the championship because it was (a celebration) of their accomplishments. This year, they played so much better and harder than last year and they felt they could win it all,” said East coach Karen Esposito.
This core of players has enjoyed a lot of success in recent seasons and also finished in second place in last spring’s basketball championships.
More important than the wins, though, are the relationships that are built between the athletes and partners. Esposito was also moved this season to see the Cranston community come out to support the team on a regular basis.
“Unified is amazing. Our partners worked hard with our students and really tried to form bonds with the athletes. It has really opened their eyes to be able to play with and help them, and the athletes really enjoy being part of a team. When we have our home games, it’s incredible the amount of support we get from the school. The kids are all one, there’s no who’s who,” said Esposito.
Members of the East unified volleyball team included: Patrick Connor, Nyasia Robinson, Chase Russell, Mario Morale-Sandoval, Darrian Harris, Ariany Patrick, Silas Sorrenntinno, Matthew Gabe Quinlan, Joshua Dorvilier, Wesley Sanchez and Jeremiah Fernandez-Morrobel. Coaches were Karen Esposito and Kristen Blake.