MIT Women's Basketball Joins Forces with Athletes Unlimited

On a recent Wednesday night, the MIT women’s basketball team trekked to Newton to train with the Pointsetters of Athletes Unlimited. Athletes Unlimited, one of the largest community-based therapeutic recreation programs for people with disabilities in Massachusetts, serves more than 250 local athletes with a variety of year-round programs that provide something for everyone, including track, tennis, Zumba, and yoga.

A very spirited and competitive group, the Pointsetters practice every Wednesday and play in a tournament at the end of the season. On this occasion, the Engineers jumped in and assisted with a variety of drills before playing a game.

“We had a blast from the minute we walked in to the minute we left,” said MIT captain Mari Kordell. “We were just as excited to be there as the Pointsetters were to have us. They were so enthusiastic, and it puts into perspective that basketball isn't always about win-loss records and final scores.”

The evening had personal importance for MIT head coach Sonia Raman, whose brother, Nitin, is a member of the Pointsetters. “It was incredible having Nitin’s team and my MIT team all on the court together as one big family,” Raman says. “We are so fortunate to be in a position to give back, and doing so within the context of a sport we all love makes it a fun experience.”

Mark Kelly, the director of special needs for the Newton Parks and Recreation Department, thanked Raman and the women’s basketball team for volunteering with the Pointsetters. "Our athletes look forward to seeing the MIT players each year,” Kelly says. “We know these student-athletes have rigorous schedules both on and off the court, and we are thankful they can find time to come volunteer with our athletes.”

“It's great that there are programs like this for the athletes to play in,” Kordell says. “I think once anyone volunteers, they'll definitely want to come back and help again. We all wished we could have stayed longer, and we can't wait to come back.”

To learn more about the program or to volunteer, please contact Mark Kelly at mkelly@newtonma.gov.