2024 Fall Sports Fest
The 2024 Fall Sports Fest at Mount St. Mary’s University was filled with thrilling Flag Football, Long Distance Running, Tennis, and Powerlifting events, showcasing the talents of SOMD athletes and their Unified® teammates. A huge thank you to The Mount for being such incredible hosts, and an extra shout-out to the amazing volunteers, coaches, officials, and families who made it all possible! #ExperienceInclusion
Flag Football
This season, Flag Football brought together a vibrant mix of talent and teamwork at the Fall Fest, with 16 teams—11 traditional and 5 unified—ready to showcase their skills. Thirteen additional athletes focused on skill development, adding even more excitement to the event. To qualify, each team participated in at least three competitive meets held in Columbia and Frederick, giving them plenty of practice and preparation. In total, 160 athletes, partners, and coaches dedicated themselves to the Flag Football season, making it a thrilling journey from the first qualifier to the final competition.
Long Distance Running
This season’s Long Distance Running events brought together athletes from three counties, with 40 participants competing across distances of 5km, 3km, 1500m, and 1km. Among them were four unified teams, where athletes of all abilities raced side by side, creating an inspiring atmosphere of camaraderie and competition. To be eligible for the Fall Sports Festival, each participant needed to complete at least one qualifier, ensuring that all runners came prepared and ready to give their best on race day.
Tennis
The Tennis season saw an impressive turnout, with 98 athletes and Unified partners competing across different levels, each offering unique challenges and excitement.
Level 1 featured 19 athletes focused on individual skills, honing their fundamentals and setting a strong foundation.
Level 2 showcased four singles athletes, a traditional doubles team, and six Unified doubles teams, combining skill and partnership to elevate the game.
In Level 3, competition intensified with eight singles athletes, five traditional doubles teams, and three Unified doubles teams competing at a higher level of play.
Level 4 brought together four singles athletes, one traditional doubles team, and twelve Unified doubles teams, highlighting collaboration and competitive spirit.
Finally, Level 5 had five singles athletes and two traditional doubles teams, each bringing advanced skills and a competitive edge to the courts.
Together, these athletes and partners made for a dynamic and inspiring tennis season, with each level contributing to an unforgettable experience.
Skills Results | Match Play Results
Powerlifting
This year’s Powerlifting event brought together 50 athletes from five counties, with Washington County joining for the first time and contributing four determined newcomers. To qualify for the Fall Sports Festival, each athlete competed in at least one preliminary meet, testing their strength and focus. A highlight of the season was Hunter’s exceptional performance, achieving the highest lifts, including an impressive 105 lbs. bench press and a remarkable 375 lbs. deadlift. This year’s Powerlifting competition truly celebrated determination, progress, and remarkable feats of strength.
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