Unified Bocce Ball Tournament brings students together

PROCTOR, Minn. — Local High Schools and Special Olympics Minnesota teamed up to hold a Unified Bocce Tournament.

The tournament pairs up students with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team.

Unified sports is an inclusive initiative from Special Olympics Minnesota to promote equality and respect through shared experiences in athletics.

80 unified pairs from seven area school participated in today’s tournament and made friends and memories along the way.

“I think it’s amazing what they have going on. And just like, obviously, such a good community and everyone’s so welcoming, so the kids can have fun and compete.” said Chloe Carlson, Student at Proctor High.

The organizers hold a different unified sports invitational each month.

Previously they had flag football and soccer.

These students also participate in a unified PE class.