There’s a saying around Spring Woods High School (SWHS)…“All Means All.” From the captain of the football team to the life skills student he shares the halls with, each student at Spring Woods should have an outlet and a voice, and every child matters. These sentiments are what the third annual United Football Game encompasses.

“At Spring Woods High School, it doesn’t matter who you are,” Principal Jennifer Collier said. “You are important. You matter. And we’re going to celebrate you. That’s what this day is about.”

With the band, United Drill Team, and the United Cheerleaders on one side of the Spring Woods Football stadium, and the stands filled with cheering students on the other side of the stadium, Spring Branch ISD life skills students starred as athletes on the football field. Spring Woods varsity football players took leadership roles as coaches and mentors, calling the plays from the field and giving guidance.

“It’s something that I recommend for everyone,” SWHS football player Joey Emerson said. “It’s a very feel-good thing. Nothing’s going to be perfect, but you go out there and have fun, and the smile on their face makes up for all the stress.”

Emerson, his teammates, and every student involved with the Unified Sports day exhibited several of Spring Branch ISD’s Core Characteristics of a T-2-4 ready graduate. From ethical and service-minded to communicator and collaborator, the drill team, cheerleaders, and referees did their part to make the day a success. The quality of the event has even caught the eye of the Special Olympics.

“Spring Woods High School is truly one of the best and one of the leaders,” Special Olympics Texas Unified Champion Schools Specialist Ben Johnson said. “I can say this because I refer many new schools and existing schools to work together with Spring Woods High School. What’s happening here is truly amazing.”

To find out more about Unified Sports visit https://www.specialolympics.org/our-work/sports/unified-sports.