The TDSB is proud to celebrate a historic achievement by the Don Mills CI Special Olympics Unified Soccer Team, who captured the Provincial Championship gold medal at the Special Olympics Ontario School Championships held at Western University in London, Ontario.
Competing against some of the strongest teams from across the province, the Don Mills squad demonstrated exceptional determination, teamwork, sportsmanship and resilience throughout the two-day tournament. The team played seven challenging matches against schools from communities including Ottawa, Belleville, Algonquin, and beyond, ultimately earning a first-place finish and bringing home the provincial title.
This accomplishment is particularly significant as it marks the first time Don Mills CI has qualified for the Special Olympics Ontario School Championships. In their inaugural appearance, the team not only qualified but emerged as Provincial Champions, creating a milestone moment in school history. The success of the Unified Soccer Team reflects the power of inclusive sport and the commitment of student athletes, coaches, staff, and supporters who helped make this achievement possible.
The TDSB was proudly represented at the Special Olympics Ontario School Championships by student athletes from several schools across a variety of sports:
- Albert Campbell Collegiate Institute – 20 athletes – Unified Floorball and Unified Leadership Council
- Central Etobicoke High School – 10 athletes – Traditional Soccer
- David and Mary Thomson Collegiate Institute – 4 athletes – Traditional Track and Field
- Don Mills Collegiate Institute – 9 athletes – Unified Soccer (first appearance at the Games)
- Frank Oke Secondary School – 5 athletes – Traditional Bocce
- Maplewood High School – 4 athletes – Traditional Bocce
- Sir William Osler High School – 6 athletes – Traditional Basketball
- West Humber Collegiate Institute – 6 athletes – Traditional Bocce
- York Humber High School – 4 athletes – Traditional Basketball (first appearance at the Games)
Thank you to Jennifer Kil, Assistant Curriculum Leader at Albert Campbell Collegiate Institute, for her leadership of the Unified Leadership program and her contributions to student success and inclusion.
Congratulations to all participating athletes, coaches, educational assistants, support staff and families whose dedication and encouragement contributed to an outstanding championship experience. Your achievements continue to demonstrate the importance of inclusive opportunities that empower every student to succeed and shine.
Way to go, Don Mills C.I. and all of our TDSB athletes!