Crete-Monee Special Athletics once again brought the community together for its annual Unified Basketball Game on February 25, 2025, at Crete-Monee High School. Partnering with the Crete Police Department and the Crete Fire Department, the event paired athletes with first responders for a fun and competitive matchup, celebrating teamwork, inclusion, and community spirit.

As part of Crete-Monee’s efforts to become a Unified Champion School through Special Olympics Illinois, the Unified Basketball Game created an inclusive space where athletes of all abilities could compete together. The game’s format involves three athletes and two officers taking on three athletes and two firefighters, with players rotating every four minutes. This year, the Crete Police Department took home a 43-26 victory!

Beyond the court, the night featured several fundraising opportunities, including the sale of Crete-Monee merchandise, Law Enforcement Torch Run gear, and a Duck Throw Split the Pot contest. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, the event raised $700. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Special Olympics Illinois in honor of the Crete Police Department’s involvement in the Law Enforcement Torch Run, while the other half will support the Crete-Monee Special Athletics program.

With no entrance fee, this event was open to all, and we are grateful to everyone who came out to cheer on the athletes and first responders. A special thank you to the volunteers and local businesses who helped make this night a success:

• Smokey Jo's
• Aurelio's Pizza (Crete)
• Windmill Acres Greenhouse & Pumpkin Patch
• The Edge Coffeehouse
• Main Street Exchange Pizza Bar &Grill

To learn more about Crete-Monee Special Athletics, visit their Facebook page.