Unified Sports embraces the philosophy and principles of Special Olympics. When selecting Unified pairs, you want to achieve meaningful involvement at the beginning, during and end of your sport season. Unified pairs are organized to provide meaningful involvement for all athletes and partners. Every partner should play a role and have the opportunity to contribute to the team. Meaningful involvement also refers to the quality of interaction and competition within a Unified pair. Achieving meaningful involvement by each partner on the team ensures a positive and rewarding experience for everyone.
Indicators of Meaningful Involvement
Partners compete without causing undue risk of injury to themselves or others.
Partners compete according to the rules of competition.
Partners have the ability and opportunity to contribute to the performance of the team.
Partners understand how to blend their skills with those of other athletes, resulting in improved performance by athletes with lesser ability.
Meaningful Involvement Is Not Achieved When Unified Partners:
Have superior sport skills in comparison to their partner.
Act as on-ice coaches, rather than partners.
Do not train or practice regularly, and only show up on the day of competition.
