Unified Bocce continues to gain popularity at Central Mountain and beyond

By Bees O’Brien

MILL HALL, PA- Bocce or bocce ball originated during the times of the original ancient Olympiads of long ago. Now, this popular Italian lawn game has become an extremely popular sport, especially at the scholastic level throughout central Pennsylvania.

The sport can be challenging, both for the athletes competing and for the spectators watching from the stands.

There is no need for Clinton County’s curious residents to have to leave the county limits to catch an exciting match. Central Mountain will once again have a bocce team for the third straight season.

Coach Dana Robinson is set to lead her team into action beginning on December 19 when the Wildcats are set to host the Williamsport Millionaires. This will be the first of five matches on the Central Mountain schedule that includes matches at Jersey Shore, at Shikellamy, home against Mifflinburg and a road trip to Warrior Run.

Central Mountain features an 8-person roster that is loaded with experienced seniors in Danielle Erickson, Jevon Weidler, Kendalyn Bair, Nate Akely and Luke Parker. Junior Sophia McKeague round out Coach Robinson’s experienced team members.

Newcomers Brandon Fisher and Malaky Moyd will be competing in bocce for their first time as Wildcats.

The main goal remains the same with this unique competition. It’s all about fun and having a positive experiences for these student athletes, but Coach Robinson will keep her eyes on the prize.

“Our main goal is to have fun.” said Robinson “Of course, we would love to win back-to-back conference titles.”

Robinson stressed that both Mifflinburg and Shikellamy were both tough teams a season ago and the additions of Jersey Shore, Warrior Run and Williamsport in the PHAC Unified Bocce will make the repeat championship run that much more difficult.

Volunteer coach Tawnni Germello will begin her second season with Central Mountain.

Bocce teams are comprised of both Special Olympics athletes and non-Special Olympics athletes. It provides students with the chance to positively interact with other students in a competitive setting.

So, if you’re curious as to what exactly this latest Wildcat sport is all about come check out unified bocce this winter in Mill Hall.