Sleepy Hollow High School’s Pioneer Team enjoyed a year of team-building activities that focused on fitness, skills, and sportsmanship. The team is made up of 16 students who took part in soccer, handball, and basketball during six- to seven-week seasons. Special Education Teacher Laura Mastrosimone has been coaching the team since 2021 and noted handball as being the overall favorite sport for the students.
Sleepy Hollow’s team is part of the Hudson Valley Pioneer League, which is made up of 15 schools in the Hudson Valley. The league brings together athletes of all abilities so they can compete in a fun and exciting environment.
“The teams met in October to set the schedule, and we practiced before and after school and even on the off weeks to keep the momentum going,” said Ms. Mastrosimone. “They are a true team. They work together and play together.”
Find out what's happening in Tarrytown-Sleepy Hollowfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The students on the Sleepy Hollow Team are also a part of a life skills class, where they are provided different work opportunities such as running Sleepy Coffee. They also assist at local businesses such as The Sailhouse restaurant, where they roll silverware, wipe and set tables, fill sugar caddies, and wipe down glasses and silverware.
This year, Ms. Mastrosimone had the opportunity to host the year-end celebration dinner for the Hudson Valley Pioneer League. She reached out to The Sailhouse as a possible venue for the event, and they jumped at the chance to provide a space for the students.
On June 5 the Sleepy Hollow team celebrated their successful season with their fellow athletes.
Find out what's happening in Tarrytown-Sleepy Hollowfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“We are very fortunate that this event came together through donations, such as ice cream and brownies, a photo booth, balloons, and different things that were needed. A major donation was the venue at a significantly reduced cost,” said Ms. Mastrosimone. “It’s amazing how quick people are to help because it’s for a great cause. It’s for the kids.
The event brought together 188 athletes, coaches, and those who lent a helping hand this past year. During the celebration, the athletes enjoyed dinner and dancing, and each member of the league was given something to remember the season by.
“I made it a point to get every senior a trophy with their name engraved on it, and everyone in the league received a gold medal,” said Ms. Mastrosimone. “Thank you to everyone who helped and made this extra special.”
