Inclusive Sports

My experience with Special Olympics Unified Sports® programming at Central Michigan University has been one of the most meaningful and defining chapters of my life. While I initially became involved as a student while pursuing my bachelor’s degree, what I found was far more than an extracurricular activity; it became a lifelong purpose rooted in inclusion, connection, and community.

I began this journey in 2013, drawn to Special Olympics’s mission of bringing together individuals of all abilities through sport. Over time, I participated as a player, served as a coach, and eventually helped organize and run the university’s Intramural Unified Sports program. Each role gave me a new perspective, but they all shared a common thread: the power of inclusion.

Coach Katie Mae Smith (back left) with her team.

I served as the Unified Sports intern, working behind the scenes to ensure programming ran smoothly and continued to expand. I also held a leadership role as the vice president of the Special Olympics club on campus, guiding initiatives, building engagement, and advocating for inclusive opportunities within the university community. Beyond campus, I was honored to represent Michigan on the National Special Olympics College Board, where I contributed to broader conversations and initiatives that affect athletes and programs across the country.

Through these experiences, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact Unified Sports has on everyone involved. It is not just about competition; it is about building relationships, fostering teamwork, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued and included. Athletes come together from diverse backgrounds and abilities, forming bonds that go far beyond the playing field. The joy, confidence, and sense of belonging that emerge from these interactions are truly unmatched.

Inclusion is the foundation of how I live my life. There is nothing more fulfilling than ensuring others feel seen, valued, and included. Unified Sports has shown me that when we create environments where everyone belongs, we unlock potential not only in individuals but within entire communities.

I continue to see the lasting results of this program. The lessons I learned and the relationships I built remain a constant source of inspiration. Unified Sports shaped my perspective, strengthened my leadership skills, and reinforced my commitment to advocating for inclusion in all areas of life.

What began as a college experience became something far greater, a purpose that continues to guide me. Through Unified Sports, I found a community, a calling, and a lifelong passion for making the world a more inclusive place for all.