The Unified Sports program at Frenship High School embodies the values of the district while creating a strong sense of community and an inclusive environment. Recently, the program has earned national recognition and has the honor of sending student representatives to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.
At the recent local Special Olympics Bowling Competition, Frenship High School Unified Sports was presented with the National Unified Champion School Banner for its commitment to inclusion, leadership, and meaningful participation. This national honor is given to schools to celebrate meeting high standards in Unified Sports participation, inclusive youth leadership, and school-wide engagement.
Kayci Smith, Frenship High School Special Education Department Chair and Unified Head Coach, explained that Frenship earned the Texas Champion School Banner last year, highlighting the program’s ongoing dedication and achievements.
“This recognition reflects the heart, effort, and commitment of our students, staff, and community. It shows that Frenship’s commitment to inclusion is not a one-time achievement, but a sustained culture we continue to build year after year,” said Smith. “This means our students are not just playing together. They are leading together, cheering together, and building a truly inclusive school culture.”
Currently, there are around 50 students involved in the Unified program, including athletes, partners, student leaders, and volunteers. This number continues to grow each year as more students seek to be part of something impactful.
In addition to the National Banner, Frenship High School was named to the ESPN Honor Roll, an accolade that recognizes schools going above and beyond to provide equitable athletic opportunities for students with and without disabilities while fostering school-wide unity. The recognition comes with an official honorary plaque and gold medal from ESPN and Special Olympics.
Smith explained that Unified Sports creates real friendships, promotes empathy, and gives every student a place to belong.
“Unified Sports changes lives. I truly believe this with my entire heart,” Smith said. “It breaks down barriers, builds confidence, and teaches students that differences do not define limitations. At Frenship, we believe every student deserves the chance to feel valued, celebrated, and included, and Unified Sports makes that happen daily.”
What began as a small group led by two coaches, Kayci Smith and Aaron Tomlinson, has grown into a robust program offering multiple sports, leadership teams, and school-wide events. Over the years, the program has fostered authentic friendships, created lasting connections among students, and earned national recognition for its inclusive approach and positive impact.
Reflecting on the program’s achievements, Smith shared her pride in the students and staff for earning these prestigious awards.
“There aren’t enough words to describe how proud I am. These athletes show up with heart, courage, and kindness every single day. To see them recognized on a national stage validates all the hard work they put in and the character they demonstrate,” said Smith. “These awards belong to every athlete, partner, coach, teacher, and supporter who believes in the power of inclusion.”
The national recognition earned by Frenship High School’s Unified Sports program has opened the door to exciting new opportunities. Several Frenship students will attend the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota as both representatives and athletes.
Mac Ebert, a Unified Athlete, Camden Reese, a 2025 alumnus and Unified Partner, and Kayci Smith, the Unified Coach, were selected as official Unified Liaisons to represent Texas at the games. Their roles will include supporting the athletes and helping showcase the state’s Unified Sports program on a national stage.
Alumni athletes Trey Lorimer, Devan Pardo, Jeremiah Pardo, Christian Ray-Manley, JJ Broaddus, and Ansley Iversen will compete as members of the Texas Tech University Unified basketball team, representing their school and state with pride.
“This is an unbelievable honor for these students and for Frenship,” said Smith. “Being selected at this level speaks volumes about their leadership, character, and dedication.”
With national honors, growing student participation, and upcoming representation at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, Frenship High School’s Unified Sports program continues to make an impact both on and off the field.
Congratulations, Tigers!