The basketball courts were filled with laughter and friendly competition this past Saturday, February 10, at the annual Area 17 Special Olympics Basketball Tournament. The Frenship Gold team came in 1st place and the Frenship Blue team came in 3rd place in the basketball tournament.  

While at the competition, older participants in middle school and high school competed in basketball games, while younger students in elementary school participated in skill-based activities such as, dribbling, passing, and shooting. 

Cody Coyle, Adapted Physical Education Teacher and Frenship Special Olympics Coach, believes that through participating in Special Olympics it can offer students a wide range of physical, emotional, and social benefits. 

“I believe that Special Olympics gives these students an opportunity to show themselves, their families, and the community how special they truly are and what they can achieve,” said Coyle. “These students are incredible to be around each day and always have a smile on their face regardless of their current situation. Our athletes look forward to each event and always seem to have a blast each time out.” 

Coyle is extremely proud of all the Frenship students that participated in the Special Olympics Basketball competition.  

“I could not be more blessed and humbled to be a part of our student's success on and off the court. We have students who have made tremendous progress from both a physical and mental standpoint since I started in this position three years ago. To see our students reach new milestones has brought tears to my eyes on multiple occasions and I could not be more proud of our athletes,” said Coyle.  

Next, the Tigers will be competing in the Track and Field Spring Games on April 20. Each athlete will be participating in a running event and field event.  

If you are interested in volunteering with the Special Olympics, you can contact Aaron Tomlinson HERE, or you can contact the Area 17 Special Olympics office HERE.