The Decorah High School Unified Champions basketball team experienced a momentous victory as they traveled to Des Moines to compete against Ankeny High School during the boys’ state basketball tournament. In a thrilling showdown, the team secured a hard-fought 12-10 win, marking an unforgettable milestone for the players and their supporters.

The excitement didn’t end on the court—upon their return, the team received a hero’s welcome, riding through town with a fire truck escort to the school’s iconic bell, where fans, families, and classmates celebrated their achievement.

Preparation and Dedication

The road to this special game was paved with dedication, as the team practiced extensively under the guidance of coach Shannon Quandahl. Reflecting on the experience, Quandahl shared, “The Unified Champions basketball game was one of the most memorable experiences of my professional career—a true collaboration between schools, administration, and community, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Decorah Special Olympians and their Unified Champions. I am forever grateful to the staff, Mr. Dunt, Mr. Riley, Mr. Hurst, our Special Olympians and Unified Champions, IHSAA, and the Unified Partners for this opportunity. It was one of the most heartwarming and powerful experiences I’ve ever had the privilege to be a part of. My heart is full!”

Voices from the Court

For the student-athletes, the game was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of teamwork, inclusion, and school spirit.

“I will never forget winning the basketball game!” said junior Donnie Hrdlicka.

Junior John Lippe added, “My favorite part was my jersey. I was #53! The crowd was loud!”

The support from fans was deeply felt by the players, including ninth-grader Emily Green, who shared, “My favorite part of the day was the fire truck because there were people cheering for us.”

Sophomore Margaret Hahn remarked, “Yesterday was probably one of the most fun experiences I have had in high school! My highlight would definitely be getting to go “behind the scenes,” get our own room, and sit down at the court.  I loved how happy and exciting the atmosphere, fans, and team was on and off the court. I am so happy I was able to participate and can’t wait for next year!”

Freshman Derek Hrdlicka summed up the spirit of the day: “To me, a highlight was when John scored and started doing his celebration and everybody in the stands were going crazy! My other highlight was when Braden went up to Carly after the game and cheered her up about her being down about not meeting her expectations. Also, being on the basketball court was just really fun and a crazy feeling. It was great that everybody came to cheer at the high school when we got back in the fire truck. I think that it truly shows how much people really do care about inclusion.”

The Mission of Unified Champions

This remarkable event is just one of many organized by Decorah High School’s Unified Champions, a student-led initiative that promotes inclusion by pairing Special Olympians with their classmates. Led by teachers John Dunt, Kelli Gapinski, and Marie Conway, the program follows a three-part approach: whole school engagement, unified sports, and student leadership.

Junior Madysen Lippe emphasized the importance of the program’s mission, saying, “I love the interaction of all the students. Just because someone is different doesn’t mean we have to be separated. Who doesn’t want to have fun playing basketball?”

A Community Effort

The success of this event would not have been possible without the dedication of many. Teacher-coaches John Dunt and Kelli Gapinski extended their gratitude to staff members Sarah Elsbernd, Maureen Hrdlicka, Norma Carolan, Allison Kuboushek, Taylor-Jane Wilkins, Mike Casterton, and bus driver Gary Fairchild, all of whom played a role in making this experience unforgettable.

Decorah’s Unified Champions continue to embody the power of inclusion, proving that when students of all abilities come together, the entire school community wins.

Unified Champions at State Basketball Tournament

1st Row (l-r):  Maddy Lippe, Kamryn Leuenberger, Sierra Jump-Gerleman, Maran Martin, Derek Hrdlicka, Makenzy Hope

2nd Row (l-r): John Lippe, Carly Mann, Paxton Remick, Margaret Hahn, Abbeke Jensen

3rd Row (l-r): Wyatt Pleggenkuhle, Braden Ramstad, Donnie Hrdlicka, Asmere Jensen, Emily Green, Nate Rhodes

Coach Dunt Giving a Pep Talk to His Team