Since 2015, the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), along with Special Olympics Northern and Southern California and the California Department of Education (CDE), has collaborated to foster an inclusive environment that increases participation opportunities for student-athletes with disabilities. This partnership has empowered CIF member schools to launch Unified Sports programs on their campuses.
Special Olympics Unified Sports brings together individuals with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. Its simple principle is that training and playing together foster friendship and understanding.
In Unified Sports, teams are formed with members of similar age and ability, prioritizing participation opportunities over competitive outcomes in league or section events within CIF schools.
The program unites kids with special needs with those on sports teams so they can team up instead of playing against one another. It started about six years ago. “It’s an amazing program where you get to see kids who usually don’t get the opportunity to be on a sports team get involved. It creates a great environment that is electrifying and fun, and it makes them feel really special that they get the attention that they deserve,” Gil said.
All 5 high schools – Salinas, Alisal, Rancho San Juan, North Salinas, and Alvarez – were involved in making this program and they each played six games.
With the help of students on campus and those on the team, the program does its very best to help those with special needs feel more included. Josiah Ramos, a junior, said, “I think I’m making an impact here, it’s hecka fun and it’s cool to motivate them, I like to help out a lot, and one of the most memorable moments was when my boy Alan shot a 3 and made it.”
They don’t keep score during the games, since it’s mostly for the fun of those who have special needs. They hold these events during school so students can go and watch and support them. Freshman Aaron Ornelas expressed his appreciation for the sport by saying, “I’m the fastest baddest basketball player ever!” It’s the things like this that let you know it was worth the effort to have these kids be included. “I had a kid 3 years ago, and they told me, ‘Why can’t I play? I miss it, and you know it just tears you up and you just know it had a positive impact on them.” Gil said.
All of the kids who participated in helping out those in need with this program understand that they’re making a difference. They’re out there coaching them, seeing them spinning with the ball.
This program shines a light on students who can be considered “different” and puts them in a position where they can feel included. “I think it’s my funnest time of the year, these kids will spin with the ball, run with the ball, you know…everything goes, and it’s their show,” Gil said.
