Sioux Falls School District hosts Unified Sports jamboree at Lincoln High School

In the heart of Sioux Falls, excitement is building as the Sioux Falls School District prepares for a special event that celebrates inclusion and teamwork. This Friday evening, Lincoln High School will host the Unified Games, a vibrant showcase of athleticism and camaraderie among students with and without disabilities.

Drake Bachmeier, a teacher and coach at Lincoln High School, stood before the school board, sharing the significance of this event. “It’s our Super Bowl,” he said, highlighting the importance of bringing together students from across the district to participate in basketball, cheerleading, and show choir. The Unified Games aim to foster friendships and create a sense of belonging, allowing every student to wear their school colors with pride, regardless of their abilities.

The event is part of a larger movement known as Unified Sports, which engages nearly 20 million participants across the nation. This initiative promotes social inclusion through shared sports training and competitions, pairing students with and without intellectual differences on the same teams. Bachmeier emphasized that the goal is to create an environment where all students can experience the thrill of competition and the joy of being part of something bigger than themselves.

As the board meeting unfolded, Bachmeier expressed his pride in the program’s growth over the past few years, noting that schools like Roosevelt and Jefferson have also embraced Unified Sports. The upcoming jamboree will feature a series of games, allowing students to showcase their skills and celebrate their achievements together.

The atmosphere in the room was filled with enthusiasm as Bachmeier and his students shared their experiences, underscoring the importance of providing opportunities for all students to step onto the gym floor and feel the support of their peers. “It’s amazing what you guys are doing to give as many students as possible that experience,” one board member remarked, recognizing the impact of these inclusive activities.

As the Unified Games approach, the Sioux Falls School District stands poised to celebrate not just athletic prowess, but the spirit of unity and acceptance that defines their community. The event promises to be a memorable evening, filled with cheers, high-fives, and the shared joy of participation, reminding everyone that in sports, as in life, teamwork and determination truly pay off.