The inaugural ND Unified Cougar Classic has been deemed a “resounding success,” says Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools.
The event, held at École Secondaire Notre Dame High School on April 12, aimed to unite high school students with and without intellectual disabilities through sports.
“The ND Unified Cougar Classic was less about competition and more about connections,” said NDHS Unified head coach Alison Snow.
“Witnessing athletes and partners playing together, laughing, and supporting one another truly underscored that sports go beyond winning—they are about crafting a community where everyone feels they belong.”
The event integrated athletes with and partners without intellectual disabilities into cohesive teams. Along with Unified Sports teams from Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School and Eckville Jr/Sr High School, the Notre Dame Cougars welcomed a total of 90 participants for a day of recreational competition in bean bag toss and three-on-three basketball, interspersed with lunch and dancing.
NDHS Unified athlete Hailey Morin called the event “awesome.”
“I was nervous at first, but once I met new people, I felt comfortable and safe on the court with everyone,” said Morin.
The success of the classic has “firmly established” the ND Unified Cougar Classic as a foundational event in the school’s ongoing commitment to acceptance and support for all students, a Red Deer Catholic media release stated.
Snow said she’s optimistic about the future impact of the event.
“The momentum of learning and understanding generated by this year’s classic promises to have a lasting influence on our school community. We are eagerly anticipating our 2nd annual event,” said Snow.
ASAA Unified Sports is a pioneering program that unites high school students with and without intellectual disabilities through sports. By training and competing together, participants experience firsthand the importance of inclusion, respect and the joy of sports, Red Deer Catholic explained. The goal is to foster a world where everyone is recognized for their abilities and celebrated for their achievements.
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