In order to gain them the District Champions title, the team has prioritized building close relationships and creating a fun and encouraging environment for all the runners.

The Unified Track team can best be described as “a competitive track team composed of an equal number of athletes with special needs and partners,” coach Patricia Gallagher said. “The two practice together and compete with peers with similar levels.”

For coach Gallagher, “the genuine and authentic relationships built between the partners and athletes” is one of the primary reasons why she loves to have the opportunity of coaching such an impressive team and group of kids.

For the team, having fun and enjoying their time together is a main priority. This mindset is what played a primary role in helping them win Districts. “Our focus is on having fun and improving individual skills. The competition is secondary and with that attitude, we were able to win districts,” Gallagher said.

For the athletes these friendships and connections that they have acquired over the season is one of the best qualities about getting to be on the team. “I’ve loved getting to  make new friends along the way and learn new skills,” senior Caitlin Graham said.

Not only do the players benefit on the field, but the connections that they have built also carry into the school atmosphere as well. “The team has formed stronger and closer relationships with each other, and became able to help each other on the track as well as in school,” Gallagher said.

The partners on the Unified team are provided with the opportunity to gain experience as a runner, as well as connect with the special needs students and athletes. “I’ve learned to be a better runner as well as being able to see the kids with learning disabilities and special needs have fun. I loved getting to help out all the kids,” Graham said.

By being on a team, athletes learn to become a better personal athlete, but it is also important for them to encourage and motivate the other athletes on their team. This is something that the Unified team accels at. “The team is a great group of kids that work great together to make each other better every day,” Gallagher said.

The team connects on a friendship level, as well as holding each other accountable and coaching each other throughout the season. “Everyone works together. Partners see what needs to be done and help out where they can,” Gallagher said. “The athletes and partners are willing to change and modify events to fit in where needed. Everyone helps teach each other skills for events.”

Although the relationship aspect plays a crucial role in the team’s success, their dedication and determination certainly does not go unnoticed. “The team has always been very outgoing because we are so determined to win every game that we have,” Graham said. “I think since we are so determined and work hard every day at practice, it makes us stand out.”