Around the school, many new sports have emerged, and participation has been high. In this sport, though, inclusion is way above participation.
This sport is unified track and field. Kids with disabilities, such as those with 504s and IEPs, team up with neurotypical students and work together to compete in track and field events.
One goal of the players is to have fun simply.
Sophomore Nick Sculing enjoys being able to play with his sister, Senior Olivia Seuling.
Many have also joined the sport because of their siblings’ involvement, like junior Emma Hulen.
“My sister did it through high school, so it seemed like a lot of fun being able to work with special needs kids and mect new people,” said Hulen.
Along with meeting new kids, the sport also opens up new opportunities for the athletes who compete in unified track and field.
“You get to experience a different side of the school when you are in the unified track and field.
Many other people don’t get to be around this,” said senior Noah Tanner.
Being in the sport helps people open up to a new world outside of sports, which also benefits them in their everyday lives.
“In unified track and field, we learn how to make evervone feel included and how to give everyone an opportunity to have fun. We also learn how to interact with people,” said sophomore Paul Flan-igan.
While learning is essential in the sport, many
also enjoy the competition within it and are com-petitive.
“Seeing people improve in their events and PR-ing is awesome. Being able to witness it is one of my favorite parts,” said Tanner.
Unified track and field is also a great way to include kids with disabilities in sports and help them
ucesuaeTeeaueeae waesouete anemaearevagdeeee
be a part of something outside of Best Buddies competitive and also something that is relatively separate from Best Buddies,” said Hulen.
With the addition of unified track and field into ISHAA sports, many are looking forward to the addition to more sports. They feel as if it will help with inclusion to newer heights.
“I think they should try and include everyone’s favorite sport. Some people might not like football and track, but they might like swimming or basket-ball,” said Olivia.
The unified track and field team looks to continue its competition as a team throughout the sea-son. Their next meet is April 30, 6 p.m. at Silver Creek High School.