University of Oregon students, faculty and staff are invited to join the Department of Physical Education and Recreation’s first-ever Unified Basketball League this winter.

In partnership with intramural sports and Special Olympics, the league combines teams are made up of both Special Olympics athletes and UO community members. Unified Sports unites individuals with and without intellectual disabilities to break down stereotypes about people with disabilities and create friendships that continue off the court.

Participants are encouraged to be competitive, but the main focus of the league is to build community and promote a safe, inclusive and accepting environment for everyone. Equal playing time and fun for all is emphasized.

League games will be played at the UO Student Recreation Center on Sundays at 11:30 a.m. starting Jan. 28.

Contact Amanda Deml at ademl@uoregon.edu or 541-346-4009 to sign up or learn more.

—By Morgan Robinson, UO Strategic Communications and Marketing