Meyersdale Area launches inclusive bocce ball team

Bocce ball has been enjoyed by people of all ages for thousands of years. Based on the response to this ancient sport being introduced at MAHS, there is little doubt why it’s the third most popular sport in the world!

This fall, teachers Zach Boyer and Samantha Smith began to introduce students to the game and “got the ball rolling!” The enthusiasm for this game quickly grew and soon Meyersdale Area High School (MAHS) had a team of its own! 

“For students who have not had any experience with bocce ball, we hosted a whole school engagement activity where high school students had the opportunity to learn the game and practice against each other,” Boyer explained. Boyer serves as our district’s High School Life Skills teacher.

The program immediately garnered interest, and soon Smith and Boyer had a team. The Red Raider Bocce Ball team includes the following student-athletes: Bentley Chaney, Sage Clapper, Kylee Haer, Skilar Kabler (absent for the photo), Destinne Manuel, DJ McKenzie, Ashley Miller, Chris Riggins, Cheyenne Sanner and Cole Yoder.

DJ McKenzie and Kylee Haer, both seniors, said this first season has exceeded all expectations!

“I chose to join the team because I had played Bocce Ball before & knew I liked it. I’m really enjoying the season, especially because we are winning!! And are undefeated,” McKenzie explained. “I like my teammates and being able to show off my skills!”

Haer said her goal was to try something new and different for her senior year and joining the Bocce ball team was the perfect fit!

“I have learned so much throughout every game and practice, and we are only getting better! What I like most is working together with others to make the best solution possible for our team, especially in games.”

“The goal of the Unified Bocce Ball program is to make students feel included, be involved in a sport regardless of their disability and integrate with other students, teams and peers without disabilities,” Boyer explained. “It is our hope that students gain the skills needed to work at the team to reach a common goal.”

The beauty of the game is its ability to create an atmosphere of camaraderie and friendly competition that flourishes no matter the player’s background or experience. The Red Raider team is a perfect example of why this sport remains so popular – athletes and partners who work together to support each other before, during and after gameplay. 

The team practices twice a week working on skills related to Bocce Ball and to prepare for their weekly competitions.  This first season has proven successful and Boyer and Smith look forward to welcoming more students to the team in the future.