The Unified Sports program at EHHS brings together students of all abilities to play on the same team, learn from one another, and build lasting friendships. The program plays a big role in our school by fostering inclusivity and friendship among students of varying abilities.
The head coach, Jake Hackett, shares that his “primary responsibility is to create an environment where both regular education students and those with special needs can compete in sports while emphasizing fun, sportsmanship, and competitiveness.”
Typically, the team consists of 12 to 20 players, allowing for a close-knit group that encourages teamwork and camaraderie. The unified sports program was established to provide a platform for regular education students and special education students to compete together, promoting friendship and understanding.
The season begins each year after Thanksgiving and continues until the end of the school year. During this time, they play various sports, including volleyball, softball, and track. Students interested in joining the team can easily find Coach Hackett in the building or reach out to EHPS Athletic Director Anthony Verderame. Coach Hackett wants to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Mr. Hackett shares, “One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching the unified sports team is witnessing the joy and enthusiasm that [the] students bring to each practice. They genuinely look forward to coming together, and the environment is filled with laughter and support. Each student faces unique challenges, but the core mission of unified sports is to help them overcome these obstacles while fostering lasting friendships.”
The benefits of this program extend to both special needs students and their regular education peers, as they learn valuable lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, and the importance of inclusion. Overall, the unified sports program not only enhances the school experience but also helps cultivate lifelong friendships among students.
Recently, EHHS hosted a basketball tournament for about 8 other CT high school Unified Sports programs to compete against each other. Coach Hackett shared, “I enjoyed watching all of the players play against each other and seeing them be happy and meet new people.”
Overall, unified sports are an essential part of promoting diversity and acceptance in schools. They provide a platform for students to learn important life skills while having fun and making lasting memories together. If you have any specific questions or want to know more about how unified sports operate, feel free to ask!