The Importance of Inclusion
Written by: Kate Klassen, Scholar Writer, 1st Year Integrated Science
Photo by: Helena Lopes on Unslpash
The Inclusion Revolution
“We are the inclusion revolution. We will not rest until everyone with an intellectual challenge is treated with the dignity they deserve. Everyone. No exceptions.” - Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman of the Board of the Special Olympics.
Looking for a way to stay active, meet new people, and make a meaningful impact on campus?
Want to be a part of this inclusion revolution?
Consider joining Western’s Unified Basketball program: a Special Olympics affiliated program run through the Student Recreation Centre. Western’s Unified Basketball program has been bringing students and athletes with intellectual disabilities together to shoot hoops since 2018. The basketball players gather Sundays from 11:00 a.m - 12:30 p.m. during the fall and winter terms. You can sign up through the Student Recreation Centre intramural portal.
Students and athletes with intellectual disabilities play on the same teams in this intramural program, building friendships through teamwork, connection, and inclusive sport.
According to Special Olympics International, "Participants say Unified Sports, where everyone contributes and feels valued, brings a different kind of reward than highly competitive sports. Shared experiences, skill development, and social bonds are prioritized over winning.”
This past year, I had the opportunity to help coordinate, coach, and officiate the Unified Basketball program at Western. As a lead organizer for my high school’s Special Olympics track and field day, inclusion through sport was already important to me. Finding a similar community at Western gave me a sense of belonging and connection on campus. It has become my second home.
When people say you get more than you give through community involvement, they are absolutely right. The enthusiasm and commitment the unified athletes bring to every practice inspires me beyond basketball. The moment I step onto the court, I know I will be welcomed and supported regardless of performance. That kind of environment is something everyone deserves to experience. Watching players grow more confident throughout the year has been especially rewarding. Athletes who once entered the gym quietly and cautiously soon became the teammates leading drills and cheering the loudest from the sidelines. It has been incredibly meaningful to witness that growth and confidence develop over time. I think an individual of any level of experience interested in joining Unified would also find it rewarding.
Not only does Western Unified Basketball foster inclusivity on and off the court, but it also provides opportunities for players to form lifelong friendships. As a first-year student, I joined the program knowing no one. I have since been lucky enough to join an intramural basketball team with other individuals in the program. When placing yourself in a new social environment, it is exciting to discover the unexpected opportunities that can arise through the connections you form. The value of community and belonging on campus cannot be overstated.
Beyond the Court: Impact Across Campus
In addition to the Unified Basketball Program, Western has a long-standing connection to Special Olympics Ontario. Each year, Western hosts the Special Olympics Ontario Provincial School Championships at the TD Stadium.
Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Special Olympics stands for inclusion. The organization’s mission is to include people with intellectual disabilities in all areas of life, including health care, education, leadership, and career development.
According to Special Olympics International, inclusion benefits athletes both with and without intellectual disabilities.
Why inclusive sport matters:
- Increases tolerance and reduces bullying
- Deepens empathy and understanding
- Improves players’ self-esteem and confidence
- Strengthens physical health and overall longevity
- Builds community!
Join us in the Inclusion Revolution! Let’s work together to create an uplifting campus and a world where no one is left behind because of disability, age, gender identity, ethnicity, or religion. If you are interested in basketball and value inclusivity, consider joining the Unified Basketball program at Western. Whether you are an experienced athlete or trying basketball for the first time, Unified Basketball offers a place where everyone belongs. We hope to see you on the court!
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