Unified Track and Field is offered by The Special Olympics Unified Champion School program as a way to promote social inclusion through activities that give students with and without disabilities opportunities that allow them to get involved in their school and develop physical fitness.
Over the past few years Brunswick High School’s unified programs have gained significant attraction with a noticeable increase of students participating. Currently, there are about 30 members on the Unified Track and Field team, which is coached by Gaylene Smith-Gardner; Mrs. Gardner.
Mrs. Gardner plays such a huge role in coaching the Special Olympics and assisting students. In addition, she recently she became a club advisor for Brunswick High’s new club, Best Buddies, a club for students with disabilities to build relationships and social skills with their peers.
Gardner has been coaching Unified Track and Field for the past twelve years.
“I love the Unified spirit! I feel like it is such a happy place to be when we are at practice or competing,” Gardner said.
Unified sports leave long lasting effects on participants as they are able to make so many new connections and memories with their peers. It helps students prove to themselves that they are capable of anything they put their mind to.
Gardner was asked how coaching has impacted her over the years.
“I have seen kids make social connections and make friends that would have never been possible without Unified Sports,” Gardner said.
Emma Rodgers, a sophomore, is a perfect example of being an active participant. Emma never fails to come to practices with a positive attitude and a smile on her face. She is always looking for ways to socialize with her teammates, and improve her skills.
Emma has been involved in Unified Tennis, Unified Bocce, and currently Unified Track and Field. Alongside unified sports, she has a strong passion for theater, as she is part of the drama club and school productions.
“I wanted to join because I thought it would be a fun way for me to meet friends, and chat about my dolls,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers competes in the 100 meter run, as well as, softball throw. She hopes to continue participating in unified sports and that more people continue to join the team, as she says, “it’s the best time ever.”
Unified Track and Field is a great way for students to meet friends and push themselves to achieve their goals. Students do not need to have any previous experience in track as all students are welcome.
Gardner shared how important confidence is for her athletes with hopes athletes will gain from the experience of being a part of a unified sport.
“The athletes can gain confidence from playing any Unified Sport. Every year I feel like I have the greatest group of kids ever,” Gardner said.
If you are interest in joining Unified Track and Field or any of the other unified sports, you can reach out to Mrs. Gardner at [email protected].