I have thoroughly enjoyed the coverage of the Unified Basketball League in the area high schools. I haven’t attended any games, but I have seen the photos in the Sun Journal and I have followed the results. I have a great appreciation for the efforts of these athletes, their partners, coaches, and for the schools for offering the opportunity to players who now have an outlet to play organized basketball.

There are unified leagues in several states. I don’t know where it began, but it is a winner and I’m glad Maine has several teams participating.

An article in the Sun Journal (March 2) highlighted the Lewiston-Edward Little game. While the Blue Devils were excited to compete against their cross-river rivals, the photo of Lewiston’s Josh County reaching out to offer a hug to his opponent exemplified the “Unified spirit” noted in the story’s headline. County didn’t wait for the end of the game to offer his rival a show of sportsmanship; he went over to him at halftime.

We can all learn from these athletes, not only from their actions in this league but their attitudes in life. Each of us may have something we can do better than others, but we sure can use a hand in areas where we lack the resources or abilities to do as well as others.

Congratulations to all who have made the league a terrific opportunity for so many athletes. Keep up the good work.

Jon Mennealy, Sabattus

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