Lancer HERO takes on varsity basketball

If you got to experience the Lancer Heroes basketball game on Feburary 8th, then you would know just how exciting it was. The game was an intense match-up between the Lancer Heroes club members and the varsity girl’s and boy’s basketball teams.
But first, what is the Lancer HERO club? According to the Lake Park activities website, “Lancer HERO is a club that unites the general education and special education students in order to promote social skills and community. They participate in social gatherings, fundraising, school events, and other school activities.”
Lancer HERO is a club dedicated to creating an “accepting and fun environment,” Katerina Courlas (LP ‘24), a 4-year Lancer HERO club member, said.
“The club is open to everyone, which makes everyone included regardless of ability or age,” Kat said. “We create an accepting and fun environment at every meeting, especially when we throw holiday parties! We are able to work with the same group each week or rotate to work with new people, too. The club is open to everyone, which makes everyone included regardless of ability or age.
Lancer HERO hosts lots of fun meetings where they do fun activities like karaoke, holiday parties, and plays. Lancer Hero is truly a club looking to include anyone and everyone.
Not only was the HERO game entertaining to watch, but it also made those participating feel overjoyed. When asked how the Lancer HERO club members feel when they are cheered on in a game, club advisor Ms. Shannon Tumpane shared how they “feel famous and very happy.”
Ms. Tumpane said events like these are a great way to “make everyone feel like they are contributing to the spirit and culture of Lake Park.”
A simple basketball game can put a smile on so many people’s faces. HERO members excitedly talked about the game for weeks leading up to it, and that excitement carried over to the energy of the game.
“It was an incredible opportunity to allow them to prove [what they are capable ofl]. They were overjoyed when people knew their names, cheered for them, and gave high fives and fist bumps. They were so happy to be included in something that is fun for them, too,” Kat said.
Attendees experienced an environment that joyful and exciting.
“My favorite part was the environment that was created in the gym. Everyone was excited for each point scored and was willing to accommodate anyone who needed an extra turn,” Kat said. “There was a positive atmosphere that made everyone feel included and apart of something bigger than themselves.”
In addition to the basketball game, Lancer HERO members attend and participate in many other events, including the powder puff homecoming football game, drama productions, and holiday parties. Lancer HERO helps with the autism walk in April as well.
The money raised, over $3,000, will be donated to the Special Olympics.