Growing up in Marquette, MI, as a high school senior with spina bifida, I’ve faced many challenges—but my love for athletics has always pushed me forward. Competing in track meets has been a major accomplishment for me, showing that everyone deserves a chance to shine, no matter their abilities.

Unfortunately, current rules prevent adaptive athletes like me from scoring points in key competitions like regionals and state finals. This outdated policy creates an unfair barrier and goes against the inclusive values that sports should represent.

Adaptive athletes bring strength, diversity, and determination to the field. We train hard and compete with heart—we deserve to have our efforts recognized and to contribute to our teams just like any other athlete.

By not allowing us to score, the system sends the wrong message: that our efforts matter less. That’s not true. It’s time to change this rule and give adaptive athletes the full recognition we’ve earned.

I’m calling on those track enthusiasts in the UP and beyond to fix this. Let’s build a system where every athlete’s achievements are valued. Please sign this petition to support equal opportunities for adaptive athletes in high school track meets.

Together, we can make sports more inclusive—for everyone.