FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2025

MPUSD to Host Special Olympics Soccer Competition at Seaside High School on Friday, October 3, 2025
Students with Exceptional Needs from Across MPUSD Come Together for Inclusive Athletics, Teamwork, and School Spirit

Seaside, CA - The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District will host a countywide Special Olympics Soccer competition on Friday, October 3, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Seaside High School, located at 2200 Noche Buena Street in Seaside. The event will welcome elementary grade level student-athletes and unified partners from multiple schools within Monterey County for a morning of games, skills challenges, and celebration of inclusion.

“This event showcases what’s best about our schools, students supporting students, celebrating strengths, and learning the power of inclusion,” said PK Diffenbaugh, Superintendent, Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. “We’re proud to partner with Special Olympics Northern California and community partners to make this experience possible.”

Presented in partnership with Special Olympics Northern California, this event brings together students to train, compete, and lead alongside one another. It’s a powerful opportunity for all students to learn about inclusion, empathy, sportsmanship, teamwork, and belonging while cheering on classmates and celebrating abilities.

“Hosting the competition at Seaside High is an honor,” said Katie Rivera, Assistant Superintendent, Special Education. “Students and staff are excited to welcome athletes, families, and fans for a day full of teamwork, sportsmanship, and school pride.”

Participating Schools

MPUSD: Crumpton Elementary School, Del Rey Woods Elementary School, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School of the Arts, La Mesa School, Marshall Elementary School, Marina Vista Elementary Arts Academy, Olson Elementary School, and Ord Terrace Elementary School

Event Schedule 

• 9:30 a.m. – Team check-in 

• 9:45 a.m. – Parade of Athletes
• 10:00 a.m. – Opening  Ceremonies
• 10:15–11:45 a.m. – Unified soccer matches and skills stations
• 12:00 p.m. – Event concludes

Why It Matters

Beyond the scoreboard, the competition advances MPUSD’s commitment to inclusive learning environments. Students will:

• Practice leadership and allyship as unified partners and team captains.
• Build empathy and respect by competing and cheering together.
• Experience belonging and school connectedness, which supports overall well-being and success.

 

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