On December 12, Midview High School proudly hosted its first-ever Unified Sports basketball tournament, welcoming teams from Buckeye High School, Strongsville High School, Max S. Hayes High School, North Olmsted High School, Olmsted Falls High School, Garrett Morgan School of Engineering and Innovation, and, of course, our very own Middies.
Unified Sports, a program created by the Special Olympics, pairs athletes with intellectual disabilities (Special Olympians) alongside peers without disabilities who are not currently in-season athletes. With teamwork and inclusivity at the forefront, Unified Sports programs foster leadership, build self-confidence, and create meaningful connections among students. This year marks Midview’s second year participating in Unified Sports.
The tournament took place in the Midview Kubuski Gymnasium and the small gym, running from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The opening game between Midview and Olmsted Falls High School included a performance of the National Anthem by the Midview Marching Blue and a show of support from our high school student body and staff. Additionally, Special Olympians from all grade levels were in attendance to cheer on their teammates.
When asked what he enjoys most about Unified Sports, junior Jacob Koney said, “I just like it because I can get to shoot the basketball and have the confidence I need to shoot the hoops.”
He also shared the best part of the day: "The whole crowd was being so loud. I was excited when they were going crazy and going nuts.” Jacob added that he looks forward to continuing to win with his team in the future.
Unified Sports follows a three-season schedule. The fall season includes flag football, soccer, and cheerleading; winter features basketball, corn hole, and cheerleading; and spring is dedicated to track and field and kickball. The Midview High School Unified Sports teams practice for 30 minutes three times per week during their seminar period.
“The Unified Sports tournament was awesome. It was such a good opportunity to bring our school together and for our Unified team to play in front of their peers,” said MHS Intervention Specialist Katie Hicks. “It honestly brought tears to my eyes when our students were making baskets and our entire school was cheering for them. I think it was just a great way to promote inclusion in our school and within our district. Overall, it was just an awesome day.”
Mrs. Hicks is excited about the possibility of Midview High School hosting another Unified Sports Tournament in the future.