A shared love for soccer brought together athletes of all abilities for not only a game, but also important life lessons.
The Rangers Unified Soccer Program, which includes the Special Olympics Monument Warriors, took to the field for a scrimmage against the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Unified Team at Don Breese Stadium on Aug. 10.
The Unified Soccer program at LPHS brings together students of all abilities. Student-athletes teach fellow students how to play the sport, while also fostering inclusion, a principle that is close to the program coach’s heart.
“My first job in education was working with high school students who had special needs,” said Brian Barkey, coach of the LPHS Unified Soccer Team. “Our soccer players at LP gain experience working with peers who have challenges, and I think that develops a great deal of empathy.”
In its third year, this was the first time for the program to partner with an outside organization. “We made great connections, and I know that we’ll do it again in the future. It was a big win for everyone who participated.”
Yariv Ben-Naim, Switchbacks FC Unified Team Manager & Program Coordinator, believes the goal of the event was simple. “[We want] to create opportunities for people with disabilities to be included in sports and to help promote the awareness, respect, acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual and other disabilities not only in sports, but in our community as well.” Ben-Naim has a passion not only for the sport, but also for District 38. He is a graduate of District 38’s Palmer Ridge High School.
And when asked if the goal was reached, both organizers and players agreed it was a win.
“Coach Barkey and the LPHS Rangers, along with the Switchbacks, truly went above and beyond to make this scrimmage an unforgettable experience for our athletes,” said Lisa Glen, Monument Warriors Program Coordinator. “Their dedication and enthusiasm created an atmosphere of pure joy, and we can’t thank them enough for putting together such a fun and inclusive event. Our team will carry these memories with them for a long time.”
LPHS athletes also felt the impact of spending time together on the soccer field. “Participating in this event, as well as volunteering to lead the Monument Warriors at LP’s soccer camp the week before, really helped me understand that anyone can learn the game of soccer, no matter what. Being able to help coach and play alongside these players helped me grow as a person,” said Alex Chapman, senior. “It opened my eyes, and I was able to see that a little patience can go a long way and have a big impact on someone else’s life.”