Every year, the Central Buckeye Conference gathers to host one of the best events of the year, the CBC Cup—a day of competition and community. Unlike traditional interscholastic sports, the CBC Cup focuses on ability‑based participation, not elimination or win‑loss outcomes, making it a cornerstone of educational inclusion efforts in Ohio.

The CBC Cup is an inclusive athletics and field‑day event created by the Central Buckeye Conference (CBC) in Ohio. It is designed specifically for middle and high school students with disabilities, allowing them to represent their schools, compete in sports, and be celebrated as athletes in a structured, dignified, and joyful environment.

This year’s event was hosted by Northwestern High School, and after an introductory parade to kick off the day of events, athletes from around the area all gathered to compete in a wide variety of sports challenges.

Of the events completed, athletes took part in yard games, football toss, soccer, bowling, cornhole, baseball, long jump, kickball, putt putt, basketball, face painting, 40-yard dash, bounce house, and sidewalk chalk.

Bellefontaine saw one of its own walk away with recognition during the event as BHS senior Tanner Ballinger won the CBC Cup Sportsmanship Award this year.

Bellefontaine High School Special Education Teacher Skylar Mifsud reflected on this year's event.

 “The CBC Cup is one of the most meaningful days of the year, bringing our league together in support of our special needs students. Our kids enjoyed competing in a variety of events and enjoyed interacting with kids from other schools around the league. We appreciate our student coaches for their support and efforts today – our athletes truly love having them around – and it’s something they’ll remember long after this day. It's a rewarding day for everyone involved.” Said Mifsud.

Events like the CBC Cup continue to highlight the importance of inclusion, reminding communities that athletics are about more than competition; they are about connection, confidence, and belonging. As athletes, coaches, educators, and volunteers came together throughout the day, the focus remained on celebrating every participant’s effort and joy.

For those involved, the CBC Cup is more than a one‑day event; it is a lasting memory and a powerful example of how schools can create meaningful opportunities for all students to shine.