“Inclusive, inspiring, and enjoyable” is the way special education teacher and newly appointed coach, Mrs. Fehnel, chose to describe the recently developed sport at Pennridge High School. Pennridge is now offering students the opportunity to participate in Unified Track and Field this upcoming spring. Led by Special Olympics and supported by the PIAA, the unified track and field team is searching for a variety of athletes (students with intellectual disabilities) and partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities). Each team member will have the opportunity to compete in an individual event, a relay, and one field event. Those who do not find themselves wanting to participate in the athletic aspect of the team are encouraged to help as a volunteer or manager. All students are welcome to join, following the same eligibility rules as other sports.
Surrounding high schools in our area are taking part in the sport as well. Souderton High School has been an active participant in building up the program for the last few years. Unified track is now a sport at Pennsbury, Palisades, Central Bucks West, Central Bucks East, and William Tennent High School. Athletic director, Mr. Babb, reached out to Mrs. Fehnel last year proposing the idea of Pennridge getting involved. He had goals “to come together to develop individual athletes as a team and have fun doing it!”
Unified track is “about students reaching goals, but also enjoying themselves and having fun” Mrs. Fehnel stated. “The goal for this season is to attend the state championships, requiring at least one athlete or relay team to qualify.” If you are interested in taking part of this opportunity, contact Coach Fehnel in room 365 or Coach James in room 226 to sign up and receive needed paperwork.