Unified Sports

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What is Unified Sports?

Unified Bocce teamUnified Sports is a program that combines approximately equal number of Special Olympics athletes with athletes without intellectual disabilities (partners) on sports teams for training and competition. Age and ability of athletes and partners is specifically defined on a sport by sport basis.

Unified Sports is an important program because it expands sports opportunities for athletes and partners seeking new challenges. In addition, Unified Sports dramatically increases inclusion in the community be helping to break down barriers that have historically kept people with and without intellectual disabilities.

  • Bowling
  • Golf
  • Cheerleading
  • Track & Field
  • Bocce

Benefits of Unified Champion Schools:

Public EducationĀ – Unified Sports increases public awareness of the spirit, skills, and abilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Transition and Choice – Unified Sports programs help schools meet transition mandates and provide a choice for players in and out of Special Olympics

Family InvolvementĀ – Siblings of Special Olympics athletes are provided a valuable opportunity to participate as partners or coaches.

Personal Development – Team members tend to improve their self-esteem, develop friendships, and gain an understanding of each otherā€™s capabilities through a spirit of equality and team unity.

For more information or to become a Unified Partner contact Karen Parsley at 800-633-7403 or [email protected].

*Unified Partners MUST complete a SOKY Volunteer Form