Unified Track cultivates lasting social bonds through inclusive athletic pairing, which has allowed the roster to reach 45 members while establishing a supportive environment for many new friendships.
According to Unified Track coach Patty Gallagher, Unified track is a team program that promotes physical health and positive behaviors by pairing student partners with students who have special needs.
The initiative focuses on building relationships and creating an environment where every student can work hard and improve.
The primary impact of the program is the opportunity for students to form connections that extend beyond athletic competition.
Gallagher noted that the experience allows students who may not typically share classes to bond and recognize one another throughout the school day.
“My favorite part of Unified is meeting new people,” senior Julia Dmytryk said.
Senior Madison Bealer joined the team after participating in Unified physical education and other school activities.
“I met so many other kids, and it’s just so fun to me,” Bealer said.
Bealer added that the inclusive environment brings mutual joy to both the athletes and their partners.
For junior Sarah Hewlett, joining the team was a way to find a sense of community.
Hewlett emphasized that the program creates a unique space for kindness and genuine human connection.
Athletic Director Dennis Stanton believes these relationships are the true measure of success.
While the team competes in events such as the 100-meter dash, shot put, mini -javelin and long jump, Stanton finds that the most important moments happen during daily interactions.
“Watching the kids develop relationships with each other, seeing that camaraderie develop,” Stanton feels, are the defining aspects of the program.
Stanton noted that the experience for special education students is intended to be commensurate with any other varsity sport, providing them the opportunity to feel what it is like to play for and with others.
According to Stanton, these initiatives ensure that the bridge between the athletic department and the special education department remains strong.
Hewlett feels the existence of such a group is a reflection of the students’ character.
“It shows who you are as a person and it shows how kind people are,” Hewlett said.