In October, athletes from across the state gathered at Richard Siegel Park in Murfreesboro to compete at State Fall Games. The weekend was filled with excitement and hard work as athletes and Unified partners competed in a variety of events, including bowling, fitness, cornhole and flag football. The Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) Unified flag football competition stood out as a highlight, bringing together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to play side by side as teammates representing their schools.
Coach Chuck Catalfu
Warren County High School Special Education Assistant Chuck Catalfu led his Unified flag football team at the TSSAA Unified Flag Football Championship with great pride and enthusiasm. For him, Unified sports are about more than football.
“It’s great for the kids,” Catalfu said. “Just the camaraderie, watching them have fun and learn how to play, and seeing them come together as a group."
Coach Chuck Catalfu has watched his players grow both on and off the field, noting that many have become more confident through the experience. His favorite moment this season came was at Fall Games when his team earned a big win.
“The kids played hard and they played well, and that’s what made it so special,” Catalfu shared.
Warren County Athletes & Unified partners
For athletes like Devin Randolph, competing at Fall Games was all about teamwork and friendship.
“My favorite part is playing with my team,” he said.
This was his first year with Warren County’s Unified team, and he already feels at home with his new friends on the field. When asked to describe his team in one word, he confidently said, without hesitation, “Win."
Unified partner Elizabeth Rodriguez shared that joining the program was an easy choice.
“I just like helping these kids and being a part of their journey,” she said.
Rodriguez described her team as powerful and reflected on how much fun she has had this season.
“At first it’s a little nerve-racking, but once you’re out there you have a lot of fun,” Rodriguez shared. “My favorite part [about this season] has probably been hanging out with these guys and being there for them.”
Athlete Evan Cary has been involved in Unified Sports for several years and continues to enjoy every opportunity to take the field with a team. He shared that the program has helped him learn more about the game and connect with his teammates.
“I’ve learned so much about flag football [this season]," he explained.
Cary's favorite memories with his team have been just getting to play the game with them.
Warren County won its pool-play game against Antioch and then fell to the eventual State Champions, Hardin Valley, in the quarterfinals.
Learn more about Unified Sports: click here.
