Raiders Unified Cheer notches fourth consecutive Special Olympics win.
Photo courtesy of Special Olympics – Florida West Coast Region
On May 17, The Plant City Unified Raiders Special Olympics Florida Cheer Team won gold for its fourth consecutive year. “Our team began their season with remarkable success, securing first place at both the area and regional competitions, which led to the team advancing to the Special Olympics state competition held at ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando,” Head Coach Kim Levins recounted. “The atmosphere at the state competition was electric, with a sense of anticipation and camaraderie among the teams. In their division, there were two other unified teams. Each team presented routines and stunts that demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity, making it clear that the competition would be fiercely close. When the third-place team was announced, a wave of hope and anticipation swept over the team. They nervously held hands, their hearts racing as the competition narrowed. The announcement of the second-place team brought another moment of suspense and elation since it wasn’t our team, either. With composure and respect, our team cheered for the second-place winners while waiting for the final announcement. And then the moment arrived. The first-place team was announced, and it was our team! The team members and coaches jumped up, cheering and hugging one another. The emotion of victory brought tears of joy to some. This victory is a testament to our team’s perseverance, unity, and unwavering spirit. This accomplishment stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, collaboration, and the belief in oneself and one’s teammates. The team’s journey not only brought them the joy of victory but also strengthened the bonds between them, inspiring everyone who witnessed their success.”
Levins has served as a Special Olympics coach since 1994. When Special Olympics Florida introduced competitive cheerleading as a sport in 2019, Exceptional Student Education (ESE) students at Plant City High School and the broader special needs community showed enthusiasm to form a team. Levins took on the role of coach to provide ESE athletes with a structured platform to learn, perform, and compete. Unified partners (people without intellectual disabilities) also join the team to foster collaboration.
The inclusion of unified teams in Special Olympics sports has transformed the program. The collaboration of ESE students and unified partners fosters mutual learning and understanding while highlighting the importance of inclusion in sports. Through practices, performances, and competitions, unified team members develop friendships and connect communities.
There are 21 cheerleaders on the team—12 athletes and 9 unified partners. Five are male cheerleaders, and two of these are unified partners. “As head coach, I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside four assistant coaches,” Levins commented. “Together, we form a team that is not just dedicated and effective, but also cohesive and familial in nature. Our shared aim is to provide athletes and unified partners with an unforgettable and enriching experience. We strive to build their skills, confidence, and camaraderie while ensuring that they enjoy every moment on and off the field.”
It is clear why ESE students, their family, friends, and supporters jumped at the chance to have competitive cheerleading as a sport. “Special Olympics unified cheerleading gives the athletes and unified partners opportunity for self-expression, collaboration, and joy,” Levins commented. “The physical demands of the sport, which include jumps, stunts, and routines, help them develop strength, coordination, and endurance. Meanwhile, the emphasis on teamwork and synchronization encourages communication, trust, and mutual respect among team members. They feel a sense of belonging and that they are valued. It also helps them build self-esteem, lasting friendships, leadership abilities, and learn life lessons. They all look forward to each practice and competition.”
Levins grew up with an aunt with special needs. Levins chose to coach Special Olympics because she saw the positive impact it had on her aunt. “Coaching this cheer team is a privilege, a passion, and a purpose,” Levins said. “It is inspiring to observe the transformation that occurs when the athletes and unified partners come together, set aside their differences, and channel their collective energy toward a common goal. I see their potential, their strengths, and their promise, and I am committed to being part of their journey. Through every challenge we face and every victory we celebrate, I am reminded why I chose this path—the immense joy and fulfillment that comes from helping others grow, succeed, and thrive together. Every season brings new opportunities to learn and strengthen bonds within the team.
