By: Dr. Melissa Woodard, Wyomissing Area School District Superintendent
At Wyomissing Area High School, a simple game is making a profound impact. The school’s Unified Bocce Ball program is breaking down barriers, fostering inclusion, and bringing students of all abilities together through teamwork and shared experiences.
Unified Sports, a Special Olympics initiative, unites general education students and students with special needs on the same teams. Rooted in the belief that playing together fosters friendship and understanding, the program emphasizes three key components: inclusivity, collaboration and personal growth.
Teams consist of athletes with and without intellectual disabilities, ensuring that everyone has a chance to contribute and shine. Practices and competitions focus on teamwork, communication, and mutual respect rather than just winning. Through these experiences, athletes build confidence, develop social-emotional skills, and learn valuable lessons in sportsmanship, while Unified Partners gain a deeper appreciation for diversity.
At Wyomissing Area, the Unified Bocce Ball team embodies these principles, transforming traditional athletics into a platform for connection and growth. Students train, compete, and work together toward shared goals, strengthening friendships and building empathy.
Athletic Director Frank Ferrandino expressed his pride in the program, stating: “I am really proud of our Bocce program — it’s just another example of the power of athletics. All involved are learning valuable lifelong lessons while being part of a team.”
Coaches and special educators Danielle Faust and Sally McAvoy have witnessed firsthand the positive effects on their students.
“Bocce Ball provides our students with an opportunity to build friendships and experience what it’s like to be on a team,” Faust said. “It’s incredible to see how much they thrive when given the chance to belong!”
McAvoy agreed, adding, “It has been such an amazing experience seeing students of all abilities grow in confidence and succeed in both competitive and social situations.”
Beyond the game, Unified Sports programs contribute significantly to school culture and the wider community. They create connections that extend beyond athletics, fostering an inclusive environment in classrooms, hallways, and social settings.
These programs also have a positive impact on students’ mental health by boosting self-esteem and reducing feelings of isolation, ensuring that students with special needs feel like valued members of the school community. Additionally, Unified Sports encourage leadership by allowing athletes and partners to take on roles in organizing events, mentoring others, and advocating for inclusion.
For many participants, the experience is about more than just sports.
Sophomore Steve Rivera stated, “It has helped me make new friends.” Junior Cianna Newton said, “Bocce Ball is amazing, and I love dancing around with my friends before the games!” Senior Tyler Brennan added, “I love my friends! Roll it up!” Their enthusiasm reflects the spirit of Unified Sports — building friendships, having fun, and working together.
The program has gained strong support from families, staff and community members who regularly attend matches and cheer on the players.
Senior Estelle Benedict, a Unified Ambassador and team captain, highlighted how the experience has shaped her future: “Through Unified Bocce, I found my passion for making a difference in others’ lives and was inspired to become an educator.”
The success of the Bocce Ball program demonstrates how sports can serve as a powerful vehicle for inclusion and unity. As these students work toward a common goal, they exemplify the power of teamwork and show what’s possible when differences are embraced rather than divided. For Wyomissing Area, Unified Bocce Ball is more than a game — it’s a movement that strengthens the community, one roll at a time.
This article was originally published on the Reading Eagle: https://www.readingeagle.com/2025/02/27/superintendents-forum-unified-sports-program-bridges-gaps-at-wyomissing-high/