TEAM UP FOR UNITY     
North Shore Senior Athlete will Play a Central Role as Moderator in the Team Up for Unity Initiative

Congratulations go out to Philip LaRosa, a North Shore High School senior, who has been identified as a leader in the community. The Long Island Nets of the NBA G League, in partnership with Nassau County (Section VIII) and Suffolk County (Section (XI), have created Team Up for Unity – a program that will implement initiatives regarding equality and anti-racism education across high school sports. Athletics have historically been a platform for unity where individuals of all races can come together to achieve a common goal.

Philip was asked to create a promotion video for this important cause and will play a central role as a moderator with experts in the field of racism and bias in our society for one of the upcoming 45-minute virtual discussions during the months of January 2021-June 2021. The topics include:

• Effects of transgender rulings on sports for women/girls
• Preparing student-athletics from historically marginalized groups to take the “high road” when faced with prejudiced statements and actions by officials and opponents (be like Jackie Robinson)
• What is privilege? Many who benefit from it may not be aware of it
• There are issues unique to Hispanic, Indian (Sikh), and homeless students that may also warrant separate focus
• Bullying – virtual and interpersonal
• Eliminating assumptions that Black and Brown athletes are “supernatural” and don’t need extra support
• Bias for LGBTQ+ students

“As a member of the Section VIII Athletics Superintendent’s Board, I cannot emphasize how proud I am of Philip and his representation of North Shore,” said Dr. Peter Giarrizzo. “I have been interested in how this committee would be unfolding and learned recently that the initial meetings have been excellent across both Sections VIII and XI. This is important work, and I am honored that Philip will be representing our athletes and our community.”

Mr. Eric Contreras added, “As principal, I wish to reiterate Superintendent Dr. Giarrizzo’s pride in Philip’s message of unity, inclusion and the celebration of our rich diversity. Indeed this is important work and all of us stand in unison with this initiative in sports and beyond at North Shore High School.”

At North Shore, Phil is on both the Varsity football and basketball teams. In the fall 2021, he will be playing basketball for the Arcadia University Knights. Best of luck to Philip LaRosa now and in the future!

To register for the first event on February 16, 2021,  please visit this event registration link at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/team-up-conversations-overview-of-sports-as-a-life-metaphor-tickets-139429470299. For more important information on this important initiative, please visit  https://longisland.gleague.nba.com/team-up-for-unity/