On Friday, December 20, West Catholic High School hosted a special Fans in the Stands event to celebrate the one-year anniversary of its designation as a Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) Unified Champion School. The event was a resounding success, bringing together students and community members for an afternoon of inclusion and fun.

Fans in the Stands is a SOMI program designed to unite communities, cheering on athletes of all abilities and creating a true sense of belonging. At West Catholic’s event, the energy was contagious, with a pep rally, a Unified basketball game, and activities for all abilities during halftime and breaks in play. The game featured West Catholic’s Unified team, composed of students with and without disabilities, playing alongside a local Special Olympics Unified team coached by WC alumnus and current board member Dan Byers ’82.

This event was a wonderful reflection of West Catholic’s commitment to inclusion. Through Unified Sports, inclusive youth leadership and whole school engagement, West Catholic strives to create a positive and supportive environment where everyone’s worth and dignity are valued and respected.

Central to these efforts are two student-led groups: Sidekicks and the school’s Unified PE program (Leadership). Sidekicks are peer mentors who provide academic and social support to their classmates. They help foster positive relationships and study habits, ensuring everyone feels welcome and supported. Students in WC’s Leadership course take inclusion beyond the classroom by participating in Unified Sports. Through athletic activities, they break down barriers and build meaningful connections with their peers.

Both groups, Sidekicks and Leadership students, played a significant role in making the Fans in the Stands event a success. They helped organize activities and led efforts to engage the entire student body, creating an atmosphere of excitement and unity that could be felt throughout the day.

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this unforgettable event! It was incredible to see our students and community come together to cheer on these athletes and celebrate inclusion.

To learn more about the support services available to exceptional learners at West Catholic, please click HERE or contact Director of Academic Support Emily Hoffman at emilyhoffman@grwestcatholic.org.