Play Unified

Training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding. Special Olympics Unified Sports (registered trademark) bring people with and without intellectual disabilities together to train and compete. Every player is given an opportunity to contribute to the success of the team through their unique skills and qualities, with minimal rule modifications to ensure integrity and a truly authentic sports experience.

That's why the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) recognizes Unified Sports as an official interscholastic offering. NYSPHSAA shares our philosophy that authentic and credible athletics have the greatest impact on the student athlete and serve the greater purpose of destroying stigma and stereotypes of people with intellectual disabilities.

More than 1.2 million people worldwide take part in Special Olympics Unified Sports, breaking down stereotypes about people with intellectual disabilities. ESPN is the program’s Global Presenting Sponsor, supporting its growth and message of inclusion worldwide.

Young people of all abilities have the opportunity to become leaders in their schools and communities. They find their voices and learn to become change agents by promoting equity and acceptance. Activities within the classroom, school and community are designed and implemented by a diverse group of students to foster social inclusion.

Ensuring that various leadership roles are available to all students, accommodating a range of skillsets, abilities and perspectives, greatly enhances efforts to create and sustain change within the school and community.

These awareness and educational activities positively create an inclusive school climate among students, teachers, staff and administrators, fostering understanding and respect for all. A school-wide focus on social inclusion raises awareness and creates an educational environment where respect and acceptance are the norm and all students feel included and engaged.