For the third straight year, the Shining Stars Ambassadors special needs basketball team traveled to New Providence High School to take part in their Spread the Word to End the Word night.
The Ambassadors once again showed their basketball skills at halftime of the Gov. Livingston-New Providence boys varsity game — thrilling a crowd of close to 1,000 spectators, who lavished several standing ovations for the Ambassador players. The evening began with a pizza dinner with the varsity girls basketball team — hosted by New Providence High School Director of Athletics Vinny Corangelo and Guidance Counselor Christine Noppenberger — who were again instrumental in making this a great night for everyone involved.
“We enjoy it every time we come to New Providence,” said Shining Stars Network’s Mike Curci. “The energy from the crowd during our halftime game was amazing, and our players definitely fed off of that. They had a great time. A big thank you to everyone at New Providence High School for continuing to spread the word and highlighting the special needs community on this very special night.”
“Tonight is always our favorite night of the year,” noted Director of Athletics Vinny Corangelo. “Spread the Word is such a phenomenal movement and we’re happy just to be a small part of it, and getting to share it three straight years with the Shining Stars is really special for the New Providence community and the Berkeley Heights community.” The Shining Stars Ambassadors then enjoyed the incredible varsity game — a five-overtime thriller won by New Providence to clinch the conference championship. It capped an an amazing night of basketball, inclusion, friendship and good will. “There were hot shooters all over the floor tonight,” added Corangelo. “Certainly the Shining Stars Ambassadors were no exception at halftime. In a five overtime game, I think it was loudest at halftime getting to watch the Shining Stars play, which was great. The talent on the floor of the Ambassadors is always jaw-dropping. The fans absolutely love it.”