Play Unified Returns to ATU for Fifth Year

Play Unified, an Arkansas Tech University Homecoming tradition in support of Special Olympics of Arkansas, will take place from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 18, at Hindsman Tower.

All ATU students are encouraged to attend and participate in games alongside athletes from Special Olympics Arkansas. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Play Unified has been part of Homecoming week activities at ATU.

“Coming out to Tech means a lot to our Special Olympians,” said Darla Jones of Russellville, Special Olympics of Arkansas Area 17 director, during the 2017 Play Unified event. “Just being on the campus makes them feel important. I love the way Tech students come out and support it…it’s just an awesome feeling. These Tech students could be anywhere else, but they want to come out here. Apparently they like it because it just keeps getting bigger and bigger every year. To be a part of the Homecoming week…that is what makes it so great for us.”

According to Special Olympics, the Play Unified movement is “dedicated to promoting social inclusion through shared sports training and competition experiences.” Individuals with and without intellectual disabilities play together on the same team in an effort to build friendship and understanding.

Kickball, flag football, Baggo and bocce are among the activities that are typically part of the Play Unified schedule.