By Hunter Kuester

(Student Editor’s Note: Hunter Kuester grew up in Wisconsin. After high school he attended BLIND, Inc., and decided to stay in Minnesota. Since the move, Hunter has worked the summer program at BLIND, Inc., and has become a strong advocate for students through his role of Student Membership committee chair. Hunter is also passionate about sports and making sure blind students know that they can compete. Oftentimes, blind students are encouraged to participate in activities that don’t involve sports, but Hunter shows us that sports are a great extracurricular pursuit.)

My experience with extracurricular activities in high school was just like any ordinary high school student's life. I was a three sport athlete and competed in cross country running, swimming, and track. As you can imagine my life was very busy. Doing sports was a great outlet for me to release stress, make friends, and stay healthy. Maybe you are wondering how all of this was possible. It took a little bit of extra thinking and an accommodation or two. Running cross country was one of my favorite activities and I wanted to race even though my sight was decreasing. I sat down with my coaching staff and we put our heads together and talked about using a guide and tether. I never thought it was possible to run competitively as a blind person before that point. It is very important when trying to get involved with extracurriculars to make sure it is a clean playing field and there is no advantage. Reasonable accommodations are different for everyone, but just remember you are just as able as any of your peers and don’t let blindness be a barrier; and have fun!