Anticipation is building as the annual ELS basketball game approaches, scheduled to take place during third period on Thursday against New Trier. This event is more than just a basketball game—it’s a longstanding tradition that fosters inclusion, teamwork, and lasting friendships while uniting the entire school community.
The ELS basketball game first began in 1996, originally involving students from the Special Education Department. Before the introduction of the Integrated Wellness class, the game existed without being formally tied to any class.
Over the years, the event has grown by incorporating peer helpers and expanding its competition to include Special Education programs from neighboring districts such as Highland Park, Deerfield, and Glenbrook South.
Today, the game is a defining part of LFHS’s culture, bringing students of every ability together in a shared celebration of joy and camaraderie.
“Our main hope with this experience is to build lasting friendships through communication and mutual respect—treating each other like you would anyone else,” Integrated Wellness teacher Mr. Spagnoli said.
Since returning from winter break, the Integrated Wellness class has been hard at work preparing for the game. This includes designing the official game t-shirt for everyone to wear on game day, choosing a foundation to support, and selling both t-shirts and raffle tickets.
On the day of the game, all students and staff are encouraged to wear the ELS shirt to demonstrate their pride and support.
This year, the game will benefit the International Rett Syndrome Foundation, with all proceeds from t-shirt sales and raffles supporting the cause. Raffle donations have come from local businesses in Lake Bluff and Lake Forest, some including The Deerpath Inn, Duffer’s, Bluffington’s, and more.
To secure these contributions, students and TAs from the Integrated Wellness class personally visited local businesses, highlighting how their support would make a significant difference.
For the players, the game represents more than just a competition—it’s an opportunity to step into the spotlight and celebrate each other and their abilities.
“I feel like I can shine when I play in the basketball game. I really like when our names are announced with a fun fact,” junior Maria Alzamora said. “We are so ready for this moment. We’ve even been playing basketball in class in the weeks leading up to the game.”
Having the chance to play together during class followed by playing in front of the whole school is incredibly thrilling for the players. It’s an experience that they eagerly anticipate all year.
“Playing is the best feeling ever! I like hearing the crowd cheer and see all of the people who came to watch,” senior Hannah Miczuga said.
Beyond the players, the TAs also gain valuable lessons from the experience. Many have formed close bonds with their peers and describe the class as one of the most fulfilling parts of their high school journey.
“The most rewarding part of being a TA is connecting with and becoming friends with everybody in the class, from the teachers to TAs and the students. I’ve been able to make new friendships and strengthen ones that I already had,” junior TA Ethan Farrell said. “I like how even people who don’t know anything about basketball can go to the game and have an amazing time because of the atmosphere it brings.”
The players don’t just rely on natural talent— they reach excellence through practice and commitment. The environment is built through weeks of preparation, both on and off the court.
“While working with the buddies during the games, I’ve found that it has provided me with great friendships and connections. You spend a lot of time with your buddy prepping for the game, so as the event gets closer, it helps with communication in the exciting setting,” junior TA Addington Leahy said.
For the eight seniors helping out in the Integrated Wellness class for the final time, the event takes on an even deeper meaning.
“The ELS game is my favorite day of the whole year because it truly is a day of so much excitement and genuine happiness,” senior TA Ella Rubenstein said. “The energy and support from the whole school makes every ELS game an unforgettable experience, and I’m so happy to be a part of it.”
In the days leading up to the event, the energy builds as students, teachers, and TAs all prepare to celebrate the hard work of the players. For many, the game is a testament to the strong bonds formed in the Integrated Wellness class and a reflection of the inclusive spirit that defines LFHS.
“Being a TA has been the best part of my school days over the past two years. It’s the most rewarding class, and the relationships built within it bring me so much happiness, joy, and fulfillment,” senior TA Sienna Daum said. “So many memories have been made with my Integrated Wellness peers and the ELS teachers, and this class has provided me with life-changing experiences and valuable lessons.”
With the entire school rallying behind the players, the ELS basketball game continues to be a highlight of the school year that resonates with people far beyond the court.
“Every year, our school and the community goes above and beyond to make this game special, and there’s no way to thank them enough for their support and dedication,” Spagnoli said.
These invaluable experiences not only create connections among peers but also cultivate a sense of belonging that transforms the game into a celebration of unity and mutual respect.
“I hope people walk away from the game with the understanding that the players on the court are no different than anyone else in the building. At the end of the day, it’s about friendship, teamwork, and being able to celebrate each other’s strengths,” Spagnoli said.
