Unified Sports

Benefits to Unified Teams

Unified teams combines athletes (players with intellectual disabilities) and athletes (players without intellectual disabilities) to create athletic teams for training and competition. Participation is rooted in the principle of meaningful involvement which ensures that every player is given an opportunity to contribute to the success of his or her team through their unique skills. Inclusive activity is among the most conducive ways to break down stereotypes and foster relationships.

Unified teams provide students with and without intellectual disabilities opportunities to take on leadership roles in promoting Project Unify activities in their schools and in their communities.

Unified Teams provide opportunities for all students to participate in school wide campaigns and activities. 

In addition to providing a similar competitive experience to regular school interscholastic sport opportunities, players will also gain physical fitness, develop friendships and demonstrate appreciation and respect for each other both on and off the playing field.

Visit https://nysphsaa.org/sports/2021/6/8/unified-sports.aspx for more information.