SPRING MILLS — Unified Champion Schools brought together all six high schools in both Berkeley and Jefferson counties on Wednesday to participate in the annual bocce ball tournament at Spring Mills High School.

Each of the schools brought a group of special-needs students to compete and have fun with their friends.

Since 2021, Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools has been working with Berkeley County high schools to create fun and inclusive events for students with disabilities. By working with teachers and volunteer students, the organization has been able to use sports to make an environment where everyone feels important and welcome.

Kayla Hudson, director of Unified Champion Schools for West Virginia, shared that this event is all about being inclusive and bringing people together.

“I tell everybody that the youth today are very different,” Hudson said. “They are one of the most inclusive generations and don’t see differences like others. This event gives students more opportunities to showcase their abilities and differences, regardless of their capabilities.”

Last year, Jefferson County Schools got involved, as Jefferson High School participated in the bocce ball tournament. This year, Washington High School joined in, bringing three different teams to compete.

Janelle Cornell, autism instructional consultant, decided to lead the Washington teams after Parent and Educator Resource Coordinator Haley Kern asked if she would be interested.

“Just seeing everyone feel included is really special,” Cornell said. “Everyone feels like rockstars. Inclusion has always been a big thing for me. I want these kids to get involved in anything they can.”

Diem Bagent, a junior at Martinsburg High School, was one of the volunteers during the event.

She spent the tournament working with special needs students and helping them play bocce ball.

Bagent got involved when her coach asked her if she would be interested in helping out. She has volunteered at similar events, so she was eager to play and connect with others.

“I like making them feel included,” Bagent said. “Helping them socialize and getting them out to have fun is a lot of fun for me, too.”

It isn’t just about making them feel included, however. Bagent also considers many of the special-needs students her friends. She shared that her favorite part about volunteering was being able to spend time with the different people she’s met.

“I love seeing them around school and saying, ‘Hi,’’’ she said. “I get to put myself out there and get to know many great people. I’ve also met other amazing people who are dedicated to helping these kids.”