Eugene, Ore. – Coming off back-to-back nights of basketball games, the NCU men’s and women’s teams spent their Sunday afternoon putting on a hoops clinic for Special Olympics.
The annual event drew over 40 Special Olympians, including many familiar faces from NCU’s most loyal fan base. For 90 minutes, the athletes participated with and alongside the entire Beacon rosters, and the event had as much impact on the players as it did on the participants.
Women’s Head Coach Chad Meadors said, “Getting the opportunity to work with the Special Olympians in our community is an amazing experience. We come together for one day around the game of basketball and it is our chance to spend time and give back to them. However I am not sure our Special Olympians realize the impact that they have on our student athletes at NCU. Their pure joy is contagious. It warms our hearts and puts smiles on our faces!”
For the men’s program, coming off a tough loss to Multnomah on Saturday, it was an opportunity to put things into perspective. “It was great to see a smile back on the faces of our players after a tough loss,” said Men’s Head Coach Eddie Alexander. “The Special Olympic Athletes reminded us of our own passions and love for the game. Their enthusiasm and smiles are contagious. I'm thankful for the opportunity to give back, but always feel as if they've given more to me than I have given to them.”