Amanda Peter, special education teacher at EMS, emphasized the importance of Unified Basketball.
“Unified Basketball is more than just a game; it’s a powerful tool for promoting inclusion, building friendships, and creating a more positive and accepting school community,” Peter said. “It allows students with intellectual disabilities to feel valued, while also challenging preconceived notions about their abilities.”
More than just a basketball team
Unlike traditional basketball teams, Unified Basketball focuses on teamwork, encouragement, and inclusion rather than competition. Every player has a role and contributes to the team’s success, ensuring that both athletes with disabilities and their partners benefit from the experience.
“Essentially, Unified Basketball takes the sport and uses it as a vehicle for inclusion, friendship, and personal growth,” Peter said. “It’s a team where everyone plays, everyone belongs, and everyone benefits.”
Members of Escalante Middle School’s newly minted Unified Basketball team before playing their first game on Jan. 30.
Preparing for success
To prepare athletes and partners to play together, EMS emphasizes relationship-building, skill development, and fostering a supportive team environment. Students are paired based on personalities, skill levels, and shared interests, helping to establish strong bonds both on and off the court.
Practices incorporate modified rules and adaptations to ensure fair play. Positive reinforcement and encouragement play a key role in boosting players’ confidence, while clear expectations and team roles help create a cohesive unit that prioritizes inclusion and respect.
A ripple effect of inclusion
Peter noted that the impact of Unified Basketball extends beyond the court, fostering a more inclusive and accepting school culture.
“Unified programs create positive change throughout the entire school community by promoting social interactions, enhancing personal growth, and encouraging leadership,” she said.
At the first game of the season, EMS students and staff rallied around the team, with an enthusiastic student section cheering on the athletes.
“The staff, administration, and students love to come support and cheer on our Unified athletes and peers,” Peter said. “It was wonderful to hear the students at Escalante cheering for the Unified players by name and to see how excited they got when the students made a great play!”
Community support and future growth
The success of the program is bolstered by strong support from EMS and the wider community. The school provides uniforms, and PE teachers volunteer their time to help run practices. The district also promotes the program, encouraging more participation and engagement from students and families.
Looking ahead, Peter hopes to expand Unified Sports offerings at EMS.
“We’ve done soccer with Durango High School in the past, and I would love to explore more sports if we have people willing to help and share their expertise,” she said.
Peter added that, for her, the most gratifying part of being involved in Unified Sports is the impact it makes on the school community and beyond.
“When you’re involved in Unified Sports, you’re part of something bigger than yourself,” she said. “It's about making a difference in the lives of others and creating a more inclusive and accepting world, one game at a time.”