Baltimore County Public Schools Allied Sports

Beginning in the 1994-95 school year; the Office of Athletics unveiled the newly developed Allied Sports Program. Modeled after the Special Olympics’ "Unified Sports" program; Allied Sports is a totally inclusive program that affords students with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in interscholastic sports along-side their non-disabled peers.This program was designed for students who are interested in playing a sport but do not necessarily possess the skill or desire to play on a varsity or junior varsity team. There are three Allied sports offered; one per season. Soccer is offered in the Fall; bowling is offered in the Winter; and softball is offered in the Spring. All team activities are co-ed with the appropriate rule modifications to ensure a safe and successful experience for all students; regardless of ability.The goals of the Allied Sports Program and those of the existing interscholastic athletic program are similar. Both programs strive to teach students good sportsmanship; to build positive self-esteem; to acquire new sport-specific skills; to improve physical fitness; to foster new friendships; and to develop the concept of teamwork.This program has helped athletes of all ability levels to participate in competitive athletic activities. Athletes with and without disabilities have come to appreciate the value and strengths of each other as individuals. Allied Sports fosters a greater understanding; respect; and acceptance of individuals with disabilities through open lines of communication and forming bonds of friendship.