Some of the most inspiring athletes and role models aren’t the pros you see on TV – they’re the everyday Special Olympics athletes among us in our schools and communities. Special Olympics Unified Sports pairs people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same teams – creating a fast and meaningful path to friendship and understanding.

Through promotion, partnership, and awareness, we will encourage Utahns to Show Up for Unified Sports. Introducing this life-changing program to additional schools and expanding Utah’s offerings to include additional sports and activities will foster greater empathy and understanding of our friends with intellectual disabilities and together we will reduce discrimination and prejudice.

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What is Unified Sports?

The program brings together athletes with and without disabilities to play on the same team, competing and learning from each other in a variety of sports. What makes the Special Olympics Unified Sports program so special is its ability to break down barriers and promote understanding and respect for all individuals, regardless of their abilities. Through this program, people with intellectual disabilities have the opportunity to showcase their skills and talents in a supportive and inclusive environment.

But the benefits of Unified Sports don't stop there. Participants also develop important life skills, such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. They learn to value diversity and appreciate the unique qualities of each team member, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

As a society, we have a responsibility to promote inclusion and equality for all individuals, including those with intellectual disabilities. By getting involved in the Special Olympics Unified Sports program, you can help create a more inclusive world and make a positive impact in the lives of those around you.

There are many ways to get involved, whether as a volunteer coach, a sponsor, or simply by cheering on the athletes at a local competition. By supporting the Special Olympics Unified Sports program, you can help make a difference in the lives of countless individuals and promote a more inclusive and accepting society for all.

How to Join the Movement:

To become a Unified athlete or partner, students can reach out to their school's Special Olympics coordinator or the local Special Olympics Utah chapter. They can express their interest in becoming a Unified athlete or partner and get connected with the appropriate resources and training to participate in Unified Sports events. Unified partners (typically-developing individuals) are typically matched up with Special Olympics athletes (individuals who live with various abilities), and together they form Unified teams that compete in various sports. By participating as a Unified partner, students help promote inclusion, empathy, and understanding among people with and without intellectual disabilities while having fun and building friendships.
If you are a parent with school-going children, consider donating to start the Unified Sports program at their school. For most schools, $2500 will pay for an entire team for an entire season! By doing so, you'll be making a significant contribution towards promoting inclusion and providing an opportunity for students with intellectual disabilities to showcase their talents. Starting a program at a school can also help create a culture of acceptance and understanding, promoting empathy and respect among students. Your donation could be the start of a life-changing journey for many children.
Another way to get involved in Unified Sports is by volunteering as a coach. As a coach, you'll be able to develop meaningful relationships with the athletes while teaching them important skills, such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. You'll also have the opportunity to witness firsthand the joy and sense of accomplishment that athletes experience when they compete. Volunteering as a coach is a rewarding way to make a difference in the lives of others while also honing your own coaching skills.
If you're unable to commit to volunteering as a coach, attending local Unified Sports competitions is another great way to show your support. By cheering on the athletes, you'll be helping to create a supportive and inclusive environment where all individuals are valued and appreciated. Attending these events can also provide an opportunity to learn more about the program and the athletes' experiences, which can help foster greater understanding and empathy.
‍Finally, if you're interested in making a larger financial contribution, consider becoming a sponsor of a Unified Sports team or event. By doing so, you'll be helping to cover the costs associated with equipment, uniforms, and travel, which can be a significant financial burden for many programs. Your sponsorship can also help raise awareness and promote the program, encouraging others to get involved and make a difference. Becoming a sponsor is a tangible way to demonstrate your commitment to inclusion and promote positive change in your community.

What do students of all abilities learn as they participate in Unified Sports?

Participating in the Special Olympics Unified Sports program provides students with a wide range of opportunities for growth and development. Athletes with and without intellectual disabilities come together to play on the same team, learning from each other and developing important life skills, including empathy and leadership.

Through Unified Sports, students learn to appreciate the unique qualities and abilities of their teammates, promoting empathy and respect for individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities. Athletes learn to communicate effectively with each other, listening and responding to each other's needs and perspectives. They also learn to work together towards a common goal, fostering teamwork and collaboration.

Unified Sports also provides opportunities for students to develop leadership skills. Athletes have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, such as team captains or peer mentors, helping to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all team members. As athletes gain confidence in their abilities, they may also take on greater responsibilities, such as organizing team events or fundraising initiatives.

Through these experiences, students with and without intellectual disabilities gain a sense of belonging and empowerment, promoting self-confidence and a positive self-image. Unified Sports creates a supportive and inclusive environment where all individuals are valued and appreciated, promoting a sense of community and camaraderie. These opportunities for growth and development are available to all students who participate in the program, promoting greater understanding, empathy, and leadership skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

For Schools and Districts wanting to get involved

‍Here are some steps schools or districts can take to start a Unified Sports program with the help of Special Olympics Utah's team and the First Lady's team:

Reach out to Special Olympics Utah's team to inquire about the Unified Sports program's requirements and to seek guidance on how to start a team in your school or district. Contact Courtnie Worthen at worthen@sout.org for more information about how to customize Unifieds Sports for your school.
Identify students who live with intellectual disabilities who may be interested in participating in the program. Reach out to parents or guardians of these students to inform them of the program and to invite their participation. Do the same for potential peers (typically developing students).
Recruit volunteers from the school or community who can serve as coaches or support staff for the program. Ensure that these volunteers have a passion for working with individuals with disabilities and are knowledgeable about the rules and regulations of the program.
Special Olympics Utah's team and the First Lady's team can help connect schools and districts with funding sources such as the school district, local government, and private organizations. One of the best ways to do this is to work with your district’s foundation.
Special Olympics Utah's team can help develop a training plan for athletes and volunteers that covers the rules and regulations of the program, techniques, and safety guidelines. Ensure that athletes receive appropriate accommodations and modifications as needed.
Organize a schedule of events that includes practices, scrimmages, and games against other Unified Sports teams in the area. Special Olympics Utah's team can assist in organizing these events.
Special Olympics Utah's team and the First Lady's team can help promote the program through school and community channels. They can leverage social media and other communication channels to inform people about the program and upcoming events.

Starting a Unified Sports program can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved. With the help of Special Olympics Utah's team and the First Lady's team, schools and districts can create an inclusive environment that promotes equality, teamwork, and sportsmanship through the Unified Sports program.