Indian Hill Middle School (IHMS) has a new team of Braves ready to compete: IHMS Unified Track and Field. Thirteen sixth, seventh, and eighth graders – all ready to participate in the shot put, 100- and 200-yard dash, and long jump. While getting a win will be celebrated, the mission is social inclusion.
“We formed this amazing team in partnership with the Special Olympics, and the goal is to further our mission of social inclusion through sports,” explained Indian Hill School District Director of Pupil Services Erica Leppert. “Some of our student-athletes have disabilities, some do not – they are all Braves, and they are joining together to form one team that in high school will be an OHSAA sanctioned team that can participate in interscholastic competition at every level – including state.”
Indian Hill Middle School is the only middle school in Ohio with a Unified Team. Currently the IHMS Unified Track Team practices together two days a week. The team is coached by IHMS teachers Sandy Gemmel and Amy Smart under the direction of IHMS teacher and track coach Eric Bass.
“This is incredibly exciting for our District,” said Indian Hill Athletic Director Matt Haskamp. “Athletics is another avenue for learning and an opportunity for all of our students; the lessons our Indian Hill Middle School Unified Track and Field student-athletes learn will help shape their futures in a positive way. We are thrilled to offer yet another unparalleled opportunity in athletics for our Braves.”
The Indian Hill Board of Education will recognize the newly formed team during the Monday, May 20 Board of Education meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the Indian Hill High School Multipurpose Room.
Photo caption: Indian Hill Middle School’s newly formed Unified Track and Field Team during a meet April 2019.