It lasted just 24 seconds, but it’s an unforgettable moment that has captured hearts everywhere.
During a basketball game at Zeeland East High School in Zeeland, Michigan, Tuesday, the crowd fell quiet, giving high school junior Jules Hoogland an opportunity to take a shot.
Hoogland, who is blind, followed along as a woman tapped a yellow pole against the backboard and a teammate guided her to the perfect position. Thirteen seconds later, the 11th grader nailed a free throw and the silent audience erupted in roaring cheers and applause.
Zeeland Public Schools shared the extraordinary moment, captured by Brandy Navetta, the school district's communications and marketing director on Twitter, along with the caption, “And you thought March Madness was exciting. Zeeland Public Schools Unified Basketball took over the court this morning, and the crowd went WILD!”
Hoogland told ABC affiliate WZZM in Grand Rapids, Michigan that she hadn't planned on making a throw. “I was like, whoa, I did not expect that,” she said. "And then the applause!"
Students from both Zeeland East and Zeeland West High School witnessed Hoogland’s electrifying shot, part of an inclusive basketball game with zLinks. Both schools participate in zLinks, which according to the program’s website, pairs special education students with general education student mentors.
Zeeland Public Schools Superintendent Brandi Lyn Mendham told “GMA” in a statement that they’ve seen a positive outcome with the zLinks program. The program "is an absolute point of pride in our system. We are grateful for the way this program has impacted our students across the district as it represents the best of what Zeeland has to offer: compassion, opportunities, and relationships,“ Mendham said.
Nathan VandeGuchte, a special education teacher with Zeeland West, added that inclusive sports has made a significant impact on students at Zeeland schools. “The positive and enthusiastic environment our student body created on Tuesday is something our athletes won't forget!” VandeGuchte told “GMA” in a statement. “The lens with which many of our special education students are viewed has now been forever changed. They know that they are important, and they recognize that they are contributing members of our student body!
“Jules has worked so hard over the years at getting the feel for that shot," VandeGuchte added. "It was so moving to see her hit that shot again in front of 2,500 people. We couldn't have been more excited for her and her family. It capped off what was a very memorable day for all of us!”
