Montgomery County Public Schools Introduces Varsity Corollary Pickleball Program for Students with Disabilities
Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland has launched a groundbreaking varsity corollary pickleball program at all 25 high schools in the county. This program aims to promote inclusivity in varsity sports by allowing students with disabilities to play on a varsity team alongside their general education peers.
Coach Stacy Azizirad, who leads the team at Wheaton High School, shared that the program has been incredibly popular, with some high schools having to turn students away due to high demand. The focus of the program is not on winning or losing, but on building relationships and creating a diverse varsity sports experience for all students.
Students on the team use standard pickleball equipment, but with modified rules to accommodate different abilities. The program is supported by Bethesda-based Joola, which provides all the necessary gear for practices and games. Students not only get to enjoy playing pickleball, but also develop teamwork skills, communication abilities, and confidence.
For junior Jesse Iobst, being part of the corollary pickleball team has provided a sense of community and fun that is different from other competitive sports. The program has also expanded to include bocce ball and softball, offering students a variety of options to participate in varsity sports.
As the pickleball teams gear up for playoffs and a championship game, Coach Azizirad is proud to see the students thrive and grow through their participation in the program. The joy of seeing students succeed and support each other on the court is truly heartwarming, showcasing the power of inclusive sports programs in schools.
