Special Olympics Unified Basketball Tournament - A Game of Inclusion

The Special Olympics Unified Basketball Tournament held in Lawton, Oklahoma saw teams from across Southwest Oklahoma come together to participate in the event. The tournament was aimed at promoting inclusion through sports and bringing together athletes with and without disabilities to play together. The event proved to be a huge success, with the participants benefiting from the experience.

What is Special Olympics Unified Sports?

Special Olympics Unified Sports got started in 2013, and it is a program that allows athletes with intellectual disabilities to compete with their non-disabled peers. This program promotes inclusion by breaking down barriers and building friendships between people with and without disabilities.

The Benefits of the Unified Basketball Tournament

According to Jerri Santos, a member of the Great Plains area Special Olympics team, the kids benefit a lot from participating in these games. She said, “It forms a lot of friendships, it makes a more inclusive community in the school, and it’s just something I’m very passionate about.”

The tournament has been successful in creating an inclusive environment where athletes with disabilities are welcomed and accepted. Kourtney Knutson, a senior who has been playing as a partner since she was in 6th grade, said, “Seeing the smile on their face and just allowing them to be accepted and welcomed like all other athletes.”

Joslyn Lockhart, another partner, said she enjoys playing the sport she loves with kids that share her interest. “It just opens windows to get to know people better,” she said.

Collaborating with the Community

Different organizations came together to make the Special Olympics Unified Basketball Tournament possible. Glen Gatling from ‘All About Understanding’ helped provide referees and keep score of the games. He said, “Anything that goes on with the youth, we want to collaborate with the community and be involved.”

Conclusion

The Special Olympics Unified Basketball Tournament was a huge success, bringing together athletes with and without disabilities to play together and promoting inclusion through sports. It is events like these that help build a more inclusive and accepting community, breaking down barriers and building friendships between people of all abilities.