Unified Sports in QCUSD: Fostering Inclusion and Sportsmanship

In Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD), coaches and students are redefining the landscape of high school sports and athletics through Unified Sports.

Unified Sports is a program created by the Special Olympics in partnership with the Unified Champion Schools initiative. The Unified Sports program is bringing a new dimension to the world of competitive athletics by promoting inclusivity and encouraging camaraderie among young athletes of all abilities.

In Unified Sports, students with and without disabilities join forces and work together to compete in various sports. It's a simple yet powerful idea: when students of diverse abilities come together as a team, everyone benefits.

Coach Robert Foley, from Eastmark High School (EHS), has seen how Unified Sports brings people together.

“Coaching Unified Sports is one of the most unique experiences in all of sports,” said Foley. “Especially since it is a true collaboration of Queen Creek district administration, Eastmark school administration, athletics, individual sports and coaches, peer helpers/student body, parents, the AIA/referees, cheerleaders, and the special education department. This kind of collaboration and teamwork is the very best part of what defines Unified Sports.”

High schools that embrace this program offer students a unique opportunity to build relationships, break down stereotypes, and foster a sense of belonging. EHS Unified Sports Team Captain Jaxon C. has made new friends and improved his athletic abilities.

“This year, I have made new friends with Elliott and Chris who are regular football players,” said Jaxon. “My favorite sport is baseball, but my favorite unified sport is basketball because I’m really good at it and make three-pointers.”

Unified Sports is currently playing flag football. They will play soccer in the winter season, and then track & field and basketball in the spring. Follow Queen Creek High and Eastmark High Athletic accounts on social media for the latest updates in Unified Sports.