Unified track meet brings athletes, deputies together

Teams from local schools laced up their running shoes for the third annual Unified Sports Track Meet on May 5.

Athletes from Edison, Indian Creek and Buckeye Local high schools competed against a “mystery” opponent — the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office — at the Unified Sports Complex at Edison in Richmond. Students and deputies took part in 100-meter, 200-meter and 4x100-meter relays, along with a softball throw and long jump, while family members and spectators watched from the stands. Top finishers received medals and ribbons, but organizers said the entire day was a win for all involved.

Unified sports bring together students with individualized education programs and general education students on blended teams. Local schools have participated in football, basketball and track events.

Christina Henderson, director of special education at Edison Local Schools, coordinated the event with Edison Unified Sports Coordinator Ryan Sronce and said students were eager to compete.

“They were excited to host and compete,” she said. “Students with and without disabilities are working together as teammates, which has naturally increased peer relationships and mutual respect. We’ve seen students who may not have interacted otherwise form meaningful connections both on and off the field and court.”

Henderson said the program has strengthened school culture and increased school pride and community involvement.

“It produces such a wonderfully accepting climate that allows these unified student athletes to experience the roar of the crowd, the excitement of the event and the pride of earning that recognition,” she said.

Sronce said the meet was an opportunity to bring the community together.

“Today went wonderfully. It’s cool to see everyone get involved,” he said. “Having everyone out here all at once was a fun experience and I wish we could get more schools involved.”

Indian Creek coordinator Amber Scott said the event fosters unity.

“It brings the community together,” she said. “We all come together and make friendships with other districts, not just the kids but also the staff.”

Buckeye Local coordinator Victoria Luyster said unified sports have strengthened interaction and confidence among students.

“It encourages people to interact and realize that people are people and want to have friends,” she said. “I think it gives them confidence all around.”

Students also shared their excitement.

“It’s good and I have so much fun,” said Jackson Smith, a freshman at Buckeye Local. “I love to see everybody play.”

“I like to be with all of my friends,” added Indian Creek sophomore Misha Amis. “It’s a whole bunch of fun.”

Jefferson County Unified Sports Coordinator Tom Mort said the athletes’ enthusiasm is the highlight.

“When we schedule an event, it’s all they talk about,” he said.

Sheriff Fred Abdalla Jr. said his office was proud to participate.

“It was a beautiful day for a great event and we’re really proud of all the kids,” he said.

The sheriff’s office also joined in the fun with its own race for the crowd.