Media Release: ÉCKS Hosts First Annual Special Olympics Unified Games

Over 100 Battle River School Division (BRSD) student athletes—along with their peer partners—arrived at École Charlie Killam School (ÉCKS) from 10 schools across the division for a day of skill building, competition and fun on June 13, 2025.

ÉCKS students brimmed with enthusiasm while kicking off BRSD’s first annual Unified Games Jamboree. Grade 6 students formed a tunnel—extending beyond the hallway—and dished out high fives to welcome each student athlete and peer partner as they arrived.

Organized into eight colour-coded teams, students ranging from ages six to 17 were eager to begin the day that would end with one team receiving a trophy, symbolic of the team’s high spirit, participation and cooperation.

Opening ceremonies kicked off at 10 a.m. with a welcome message, treaty acknowledgement and band presentation of the national anthem. Teams then transitioned to one of four stations—set up on a rotation—for students to compete in Floorball, Floor Curling, Cornhole and Yard Games.

Students enjoyed a hot dog lunch and activities continued until mid-afternoon, wrapping up with closing remarks and the trophy presentation.

This event provided an opportunity for all BRSD students to access sports in an inclusive environment while bringing BRSD’s Special Olympic athletes together.     

ÉCKS Principal Andrea Gutmann and her team were intentional in planning an inclusive event and space for all students to have the chance to shine.

“We have so many talented students who do not often have opportunities to engage in sport in the same way many others do,” said Gutmann. “And to truly support inclusion, we wanted to provide an opportunity for all. Peer Partners help bring the spirit of inclusion alive as they support our Special Olympic athletes through various sporting events.”

ÉCKS is grateful to all volunteers, staff, students, athletes and Special Olympics Alberta for making this event possible. Many hands and ideas were instrumental in the planning and execution of a successful day of engagement, competition and fun. 

During the planning stage, it was important to consider accessibility barriers and options to create a positive experience where all students could excel in the day’s activities.

“We need to be more inclusive so all students can have meaningful participation in sports,” said Gutmann. “And that needs to start at a young age to give them the confidence to continue.”

All ages can participate in inclusive sports though Unified Sports, a Special Olympics program which is also part of Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association (ASAA).

Unified Sports promotes an inclusive environment where all athletes can participate. Peer partners are integral in building the unified spirit and always welcomed and encouraged to join events. A peer partner is a friend, athlete or partner without a disability who accompanies an athlete and participates in the activity.

ÉCKS plans to host another Unified Games Jamboree next year and is excited to see even more athletes and peer partners participating.