Musselman High School Shines at Unified Champion Schools Bocce Ball Tournament

Musselman High School recently made headlines with a standout performance at the 3rd annual Unified Champion Schools bocce ball tournament, held at Spring Mills High School. The event brought together students from across Berkeley and Jefferson counties, including teams from Spring Mills, Martinsburg, Hedgesville, Jefferson, and Musselman High Schools, in a celebration of inclusion, sportsmanship, and community spirit.

A Tournament Rooted in Inclusion Launched in partnership with Special Olympics West Virginia, the Unified Champion Schools bocce tournament is designed to give special-needs students a platform to participate in athletics alongside their peers without disabilities. The event fosters true inclusion, as students practice together for weeks, form friendships, and compete as unified teams. As Terri Hickerson, a parent resource and technology support specialist with Berkeley County Schools, explained, “These kids aren’t just coming to help. They are friends; they are a team. It also gives students the chance to build relationships with other schools and meet new people”.

Expanding Opportunities and Building Community

This year’s tournament welcomed Jefferson High School for the first time, further expanding the sense of community and opportunity for students. Organizers and participants alike emphasized the importance of the event in breaking down barriers and creating a judgment-free space for all students. Kayla Hudson, director of Unified Champion Schools, praised the event, noting, “It’s so cool to see schools come together for something like this. Berkeley County is top tier. We couldn’t have asked for a better county to lead this program throughout the state.”