On September 9th, Unified Bulldogs, a class at Wylie High, participated in a bocce ball competition at Abilene Youth Sports Association. Unified Bulldogs is part of a bigger, nationwide organization called the Special Olympics. The purpose of the Unified class is to promote the inclusion of children with physical and intellectual disabilities through sports and athletic events.
The sport of bocce ball was chosen particularly for its ability to be played despite children that may suffer from physical disabilities such as children in a wheelchair. At this bocce ball competition, many partners and athletes returned home with silver medals and even more with gold. When asked how the competition went, Isaac Gammon, an athlete, said, “I had so much fun today.”
Through Unified, many students have been accepted by their peers and have felt a sense of belonging. In the future, Wylie High would like to see even more student body involvement in Unified Bulldogs. At this particular competition, many different schools from different areas participated as well as adult organizations for adults with disabilities. Athletes and partners arrived around 8:15 in the morning in time for opening ceremonies at 8:30. Opening ceremonies consisted of a torch run around the gym involving all groups and ended with the torch in the center of the room. The competition then officially began with all athletes and partners competing. When everyone was finally finished, awards were given out, and food was provided free for all competitors.
Unified Bulldog’s next competition will take place on November 18th and will be a bowling competition. A practice session will be held at the Abilene Family Life Center with Wylie and Eula participating on October 17th.
