The sound of bouncing basketballs and cheering voices filled the Estancia High School (EHS) gym as students from Corona del Mar High School (CdM) and EHS came together for a Unified Sports basketball game.

Unified Sports is an inclusive program that brings individuals of all abilities onto the same teams for training and competition. The program, part of the Special Olympics, is based on the principle that training and playing together foster friendship, understanding, and social inclusion.

Unified Sports returned to EHS in 2023, marking a new chapter of inclusion and teamwork across the district. “We started small at Estancia, and with help from Special Education administrators and staff, we were able to bring both schools together for some friendly competition,” said EHS teacher Lydia Van Blom.

Van Blom says the impact goes far beyond the court. “Providing Special Olympics opportunities has made my job in special education so much more meaningful,” she said. “Students put their skills into practice, they feel like valued members of the community, and it fosters friendships and camaraderie. I even have a student who was struggling with attendance, but since we started Unified Sports practices, he’s been more motivated to come to school, and school participation has improved both on and off the court.”

CdM teacher Daniel Rojas shares a similar perspective. His students train through a blend of classroom and athletic lessons that focus on teamwork, communication, and inclusion.

Through the schools’ Best Buddies Social Skills Program, students connect across different areas of campus life. “Students learn empathy and develop a deeper understanding of how to support their peers. The personal growth and confidence they gain carry over into every part of their lives,” said Rojas.

That spirit was on full display during the recent matchup between CdM and EHS, which ended in a tie (33-33). “It was heartwarming to see so many students from our special education programs get the chance to play,” Rojas said. “The joy on their parents’ faces was unforgettable.”

EHS Principal Mike Halt also praised the program. “Unified Sports brings our students together in ways that go beyond athletics. Seeing them encourage each other, celebrate successes, and just have fun reminds us of the power of inclusion,” he said.

“I’ve learned to dribble, shoot, and cheer for my teammates,” said CdM student Joy. 

CdM student Vahan agreed. “Basketball tests your skills. I love to score baskets, pass to my teammates, and play on a wonderful team,” he said.

“My favorite part of today’s game was when the team scored the final basket, and the crowd went wild!” said EHS student Chloe Drene with a grin.

That sense of unity and shared pride is exactly what CdM Principal Jake Haley celebrates about the program. “This is one of the highlights of the year,” he said. “Unified Sports provides growth, opportunities for involvement, and true leadership. I’m so proud of our students for their commitment, their compassion, and the way they lift each other up.”

Rob Nichols, NMUSD Director of Special Education, Secondary, said the program reflects the best of what school communities can be.

“When students play side-by-side, cheering each other on, sharing high-fives, and celebrating every success, they learn how much they have in common. The focus shifts from differences to shared goals, laughter, and the pride of being part of something bigger than themselves,” Nichols said. 

As Van Blom put it, “A successful game is one where every student, regardless of ability, gets to participate and have their strengths shine. That’s what Unified Sports is all about.”

Across both campuses, that message continues to echo — through every practice, every cheer, and every connection made. Unified Sports changes the way they see one another, and it’s a reminder that when students come together, everyone wins.