RCSD Unified Flag Football athletes enjoy an unforgettable evening meeting Buffalo Bills players at Highmark Stadium in Buffalo

Rochester, New York – Under the bright lights of Highmark Stadium, a group of student-athletes from the Rochester City School District (RCSD) lived out a dream — meeting professional football players from the Buffalo Bills and taking part in a night filled with inspiration, teamwork, and joy. The visit marked a powerful moment for RCSD’s Unified Flag Football teams, celebrating inclusion and sportsmanship on a professional stage.

Unified Flag Football players from East, Edison, Monroe, and Wilson schools traveled to Buffalo to take part in this special event, made possible through the Buffalo Bills’ ongoing partnership with the district. The evening gave students the rare opportunity to meet NFL players, share the field, and learn more about the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and unity in sports.

For the RCSD athletes, the night wasn’t just about football — it was about being recognized, supported, and celebrated. The Buffalo Bills have been a proud sponsor of the district’s Unified Sports program, which aims to create inclusive athletic opportunities for all students. Their continued involvement has helped bring visibility to Unified Sports and reinforced the message that every athlete deserves a chance to play, compete, and belong.

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RCSD stands out in Section V as the only district offering Unified Flag Football, a milestone that reflects its strong commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. The program itself is part of a statewide partnership between Special Olympics New York and the New York State Public High School Athletic Association. It pairs students with intellectual disabilities — known as athletes — with their peers without disabilities, who serve as partners. Together, they train, compete, and celebrate victories as equals, fostering deep friendships and mutual respect.

“This is what sports are all about, students coming together, supporting each other, and showing what true teamwork looks like,” said Camaron Johnson, Executive Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics for the Rochester City School District. “The Buffalo Bills’ support means so much to our athletes, and experiences like this create memories that will last a lifetime.”

That spirit of unity was on full display as students interacted with Bills players and took in the energy of the stadium. The event showed how sports can break barriers, inspire confidence, and strengthen communities when inclusion is at the forefront.

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The RCSD Unified Flag Football season has been running for four weeks this fall, bringing excitement and enthusiasm to local schools. The teams will wrap up their season with final games at Monroe High School, scheduled to begin at 4:45 p.m. on Monday.

For these athletes, however, the memory of their night at Highmark Stadium will linger far beyond the final whistle — a reminder that teamwork, friendship, and opportunity can change lives both on and off the field.