This past Saturday, February 8, the basketball courts buzzed with laughter and spirited competition at the annual Area 17 Special Olympics Basketball Tournament. The Frenship Blue team took home 1st place, while the Frenship White team secured 2nd place in the tournament.
During the event, middle and high school participants showcased their basketball skills in team games, while elementary school students focused on honing their individual skills and techniques.
Cody Coyle, Adapted Physical Education Teacher and Frenship Special Olympics Coach, enjoyed seeing the Frenship students succeed and the joy it brought to them to learn new skills.
“My favorite moment from Saturday is how happy our athletes are when they receive their award after the competition,” said Coyle. “I am so grateful that we can provide them with the opportunity to show their skills in a fun environment that the Special Olympics provides.”
One of the most unique aspects of this year’s tournament was the fact that Frenship’s teams competed against each other for the first time.
“It was the first year we played each other, and I loved the way we played competitively but still supported each other,” said Kayci Smith, Special Education FOCUS Teacher and Frenship Special Olympics Coach.
Frenship High School students volunteered to serve as referees adding a special element to the event.
“They helped and supported all of the teams, and that was neat to watch,” said Smith.
Beyond the competition itself, the Special Olympics provides invaluable experiences for student-athletes.
“Special Olympics builds our students’ confidence and strengthens their social skills through interactions with peers and community members,” said Coyle. “These experiences are essential as our students transition into adulthood.”
The camaraderie and team spirit displayed throughout the event exemplified the essence of the Frenship community.
“This is FAMILY. This is what it’s all about,” said Smith. “Saturday was a day spent in the gym, cheering for each other, playing for each other, and celebrating each other. These Tigers are amazing, and we are so thankful to call them OURS!”
Looking ahead, the next competition for Frenship’s Special Olympics athletes will be the Track and Field Lubbock Spring Games at Peoples Bank Stadium on March 29th. Athletes will compete in various field and track events throughout the day.
Coyle and Smith want to extend their gratitude to the parents and staff members who came out to support the athletes.
“It means a lot to our athletes and coaches to have the support from our Frenship Family,” Coyle said. “We couldn’t do this without them.”
The success of Frenship’s Special Olympics athletes at the Area 17 Basketball Tournament is a testament to their dedication, resilience, and the unwavering support of the Frenship community. As these students continue to compete and grow, they exemplify the true spirit of sportsmanship and perseverance.