Holley and Kendall high school students had a new sport to choose from this fall: Bowling. The new offering is categorized as a Special Olympics Unified Sport, which brings together students with and without intellectual disabilities to compete together on the same team to promote accepting school environments.
This is the second Unified sport offered to Holley and Kendall students. They have been combined for the Unified Basketball league since 2017. Holley and Kendall schools both pride themselves on their distinction as Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools and value their partnership to enhance the impact of their Unified programs.
“We have never had a bowling team before and we are thrilled to start bowling as our second Unified sport,” said Dan Courtney, Holley MS/HS Athletic Director and Assistant Principal. “Unified Bowling represents our commitment to providing inclusive opportunities for all of our students. This is a new opportunity for students to come together, have fun, and be part of something special.”
“Bringing Unified Bowling to our students is more than just a game – it’s an incredible opportunity for camaraderie, inclusion, and shared victory for all involved,” said Mark Driesel, Kendall JSHS Athletic Director and Assistant Principal.
Special Olympics New York and New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) launched a partnership in 2013 to bring Unified Champion Schools (UCS) programming to NYSPHSAA member schools. The program focuses on social inclusion and is built upon the notion that having something in common, such as a sport, has the power to put an end to any preconceptions, and promote both friendship and understanding of differences. The schools look forward to the continued expansion of their Unified programs.
“I am excited to see student athletes learn and participate in a sport that can become a lifelong activity for them,” said Jason Cole, Holley MS/HS math teacher and Unified Bowling coach. “I have watched this event in the past and I know we will be able to provide the same amazing atmosphere as we watch our bowling skills on display.”
“Adding Unified Bowling is a powerful reminder that we strive for inclusion and support mutual respect between athletes,” said Macey Harrell, Kendall JSHS PE teacher and Unified Basketball and Bowling coach. “Unified sports provide a great opportunity for those of all abilities to be a part of a team who supports each other’s achievements.”
The Holley/Kendall team consists of 32 players, 20 from Holley and 12 from Kendall. They began practices earlier this month at Brockport Bowl to prepare for their first match on October 21. Their five-match season, followed by a tournament, runs through the beginning of November.
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