As the days get longer and the weather starts to get warmer, the arrival of spring brings a wave of energy and excitement to communities everywhere. That’s especially true for Foran High School’s Unified Sports team.
The Unified Sports program brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities, offering a special way to enjoy sports together.
With activities like softball and many other sports in the spotlight during the spring, Unified Sports promotes teamwork, physical activity, and a strong sense of community.
Unified Sports Coach Mrs. Cathy Ganun states, “In the spring we are working on lifetime skills, for example various backyard games—cornhole, ladder ball, bocce, and bowling. The importance of learning these activities will allow our students to participate both in and out of school with their family and friends.”
Participating in Unified Sports is about much more than just winning medals or trophies, it’s about building connections. The relationships that are formed through these programs can transcend the field or court, creating an atmosphere of support and respect that extends beyond sports.
Peer Unified Sports Coach Alexa White states, “Being able to help and have fun with Unified Sports is so rewarding.”
For athletes without disabilities, Unified Sports provides an invaluable opportunity to learn about inclusion, empathy, and the unique strengths that everyone brings to a team.
Working together to achieve a common goal, whether it’s crossing the finish line or scoring a goal, helps build mutual understanding and respect.
In Unified Sports, everyone is a true winner. It’s not about who finishes first or who scores the most points. It’s about the bonds that are formed, the growth experience, and the joy of just being there.
“With the warmer weather, more families have more outdoor gatherings, and we encourage our students to let their parents know of these different activities, so they can purchase them and participate with their family members,” Ganun added.
These games allow athletes not only to be able to demonstrate their talents, but more importantly, they help to break down how to play the game or participate in the activities.
Foran’s program has been recognized as one of the best in the area. In 2017, it won a National Banner Award from the Special Olympics and the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) for the quality of its program.
So, as the flowers begin to bloom and the days start to lengthen, take just a moment to cheer on all springtime sports, especially the members of Unified Sports who make the program possible. Their courage and resilience are reminders of what can be accomplished through unity.
