The Glenbrook United (GBU) White volleyball team placed first in the state tournament Oct. 26-27 in Rockford, IL, making this year their third year in a row as first place winners.

GBU is a program for students with special needs to get involved with sports. The sports offered include volleyball, basketball, track, soccer and golf. The program includes students from GBS, GBN, Glenbrook off-campus and Glenbrook transition services.

The GBU program started in 2010 and the volleyball team has made it to state for the past three years, according to Megan Williams, GBU coach and special education teacher.

“They were champions last year so hopefully they will have a three-peat,” Williams said before the state tournament.

GBU is a year-round program, with volleyball season in the fall. Students practice once a week during the school year and twice a week during the summer.

According to Pa’al Joshi, GBU coach and GBS football coach, all the students involved love being a part of the team and it boosts their self-esteem. Joshi and Williams agree that the program provides opportunities for the players to develop their skills, share experiences and learn other life lessons.

“I think everyone shares in that positive experience, not just the [student] that has special needs,” Joshi said.

According to Emma Lantry, GBU freshman volleyball player, team-building is a large part of practice. Landry joined GBU because she enjoys playing sports. She thinks that the program helps students get involved and gives them a chance to try something new and do what they love.

“I like to help my teammates if they don’t know how to serve the ball or hit it,” Lantry said.

According to Dr. James Shellard, student activities director, Special Olympics programs like GBU have helped bring the school together to support students who play those sports, and the students themselves have the opportunity to get involved.

“The students are given the chance to perform at their level and excel,” Shellard said.