It’s no secret that the Frenship High School Unified Sports Team is a very special and fun group. Frenship Unified brings students together through Special Olympics, allowing students with and without intellectual disabilities on the same sports team. This group fosters social inclusion through shared sports training and competition experiences.   

For the past several school years, Frenship Unified has created a space for numerous students to not only participate in sporting events, but it has also created a community rooted in love, service, and hard work.   

Blakeley Martin and Justin “JJ” Broaddus are two teammates who have developed a strong friendship while also achieving success in Unified. They were recently interviewed and selected by a committee to serve on the Regional Youth Leadership Committee through Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools.   

This is the second year Frenship has had students on the Regional Youth Leadership Committee for Special Olympics West Texas Region. Frenship Unified Head Coach Kayci Smith could not be prouder to see Frenship continue to be represented at this level. 

“I love that Unified has given so many young adults a platform to be seen and heard and spread the joy of Unified and inclusivity,” said Smith. “It’s a testament to what kind of students we have in our hallways and how much they truly care for one another. It's magical to see what Unified has done for our school in just a matter of five short years.” 

In the Regional Youth Leadership Committee, Blakeley and JJ will help other students in the West Region to promote social inclusion, equity, and acceptance on campus. Members of the Regional Youth Leadership Committee will also collaborate and advocate for peers at the area and regional level.   

Blakeley and JJ were selected for the committee based on coaches' recommendations, an application process, and an interview process. Smith shares that when the students went through the interview process, the judges were very impressed with their passion. 

“They were blown away by how passionate both JJ and Blakeley were and were happy to select them,” said Smith. As their coach, there are not enough words to express my pride and just overall joy that these two will be leading us this year.”

The teammates already had their first meeting with other committee members and are making plans for the Winter Summit. Additionally, there are exciting new initiatives underway, including monthly social events and newly formed sub-committees dedicated to various aspects of the Unified program. 

“We already have so many amazing new things in the works, since these two were selected,” said Coach Smith. “We will have monthly social events like next Wednesday we will have a Friendsgiving breakfast on Wednesday for all Unified, we have subcommittees set up now including Social Chair, Grounds Crew, Heart of Frenship Prom Committee, and Photography and Videography team. It's going to be an amazing year!”

As Blakeley Martin reflects on her time in the Frenship Unified group, she cherishes the meaningful connections she has made and the impact it has had on her perspective. 

“My favorite part about the Unified family is building relationships with all of the athletes and getting to hear their stories,” said Martin. “Being a member of the Regional Youth Leadership Committee makes me want to influence others to help promote inclusivity in our community, school, and now at the State level.” 

Martin has gained a deeper understanding of the importance of inclusivity through her experience in Frenship Unified. She shares how the program has profoundly influenced both her and the athletes involved. 

“Honestly, it has opened my heart to see the different situations others may be in, and it brings me so much joy to know that we all have a safe space in our little family. It's also so heartwarming to see the impact the partners make on the athlete's life and the forever impact the athletes have on ours.” 

Coach Smith is proud to have Blakeley serve in this role and is looking forward to seeing what she accomplishes alongside JJ.  

“Blakeley embodies what you want in a Partner for Unified. She truly loves everyone and is such a kind soul. She wants to make sure everyone is included and truly has the heart of gold,” said Smith. 

JJ Broaddus has truly found a family within Frenship Unified. He really enjoys meeting new people and welcoming them into his circle.  

“Being a part of the team makes me feel like it’s family,” said Broaddus. “Everyone is friends on the team including the coaches and helpers. I met my best friends in Unified and keep meeting more people. I love having friends.” 

According to Coach Smith, there was no question in her mind when she nominated JJ. He embodies the values of Unified through his enthusiasm and commitment to bring others together.  

“JJ is the epitome of what we try to promote in Unified,” said Coach Smith. “He is everyone's friend, you can see him front and center at volleyball games, football games, and basketball games. He is a Frenship Tiger through and through, but more importantly, he brings everyone JOY. Together, they are a powerful team ready to put in the work. The Leadership Committee is so lucky to have these guys!” 

Serving in this new role, Broaddus is most looking forward to gaining leadership skills and building stronger connections with his peers.  

“I am excited for this opportunity to be in a leadership role. I am happy people will get to know me and share all of my videos and brag about my friends. I get to meet new people, and they get to meet me,” said Broaddus. “I want to thank everyone for this chance and for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I love being a Tiger but love my Unified Family the most.” 

Together, Blakeley and JJ will inspire their peers, promote inclusivity, and make a lasting impact on the Unified community. 

“I want to help promote Unified and our team, but more importantly what it means to be a Frenship Tiger Unified Family,” said Martin. 

Congratulations, students! Frenship is proud to have you both as part of the Unified team. Thank you for championing equality and being leaders in promoting social inclusion.