Our School

Each March, Special Olympics offer a basketball tournament for their teams within and around the Greater Waterbury area. Holy Cross High School was proud to once again be a host and sponsor of this event. Throughout the day, individuals compete in individual skills competitions.

Opening ceremonies are held in the Timothy J. McDonald Gymnasium at Holy Cross. The participants are divided into teams and go to various Waterbury area high schools. From there, they play in the tournaments.

“We have been hosting this event for many years,” said Catherine Xeller, Assistant Principal. “This is a great day for the Special Olympics participants as well as our faculty and student volunteers”

Over 75 students volunteer throughout the day. Some served as referees, announcers and emcees. Others handed out food and distributed medals.

“This was a cool event to be a part of,” said Cate Cruess ’25. “It was great to see these athletes having so much fun. They and their parents were genuinely thankful for this day.”

Joe Dane ’23, like Cate, is a Special Olympics Basketball Tournament volunteer veteran, having participated in previous years. He loved helping the athletes with their individual skills. “When you show that you are proud of them, they really take it to heart.”

“They love high fives,” said Chase Calabrese ’23, who was volunteering for the first time. “This was one of the best things I have ever experienced. I loved guiding the kids through the game and making them happy. After the event, I gave Special Olympics my contact information. I would love to help them at future events.”

For Ms. Xeller, she sees this as a learning experience for both the players and the volunteers. “Our students get a renewed sense of competition coupled with patience and spirit. They brought an extra special spark of encouragement to the day. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”