Central Oregon Special Olympians train with Mountain View High School team

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Central Oregon Special Olympians and the Mountain View High School Boys Basketball Team gathered yesterday for a training camp featuring basketball drills and competitions. The local event took place while Olympic athletes from around the world gathered for the winter games in Northern Italy.

More than a dozen athletes from the Special Olympics participated in the camp, which was led by Sports Director Dylan Anderman. The event aimed to teach the fundamentals of basketball while providing a positive social environment for the local athletes.

The Mountain View High School Boys Basketball Team, known as the Cougars, facilitated the event. Participating athletes spent the day working through a series of basketball drills and organized competitions to improve their skills on the court. Anderman, who serves as the station's sports director, acted as the head coach for the training session.

Athletes who attended the camp expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to practice with the high school players. One participating athlete noted the enjoyment of the group environment. "I had a good time," the athlete said.

The session included specific focuses on shooting and individual techniques. The participants highlighted the social aspect of the camp alongside the athletic training. "Shoots at three throws," one athlete said. "This whole shooting was kind of fun. These guys are very enthusiastic. I love it. It's awesome. It was so beautiful. It was nice meeting my old competitors."

Several of the campers are now preparing to represent the High Desert Special Olympics team at the upcoming state tournament. The competition is scheduled to take place in Corvallis on March 14.

"I think we're ready for March 14th for Corvallis," one athlete said. "We're ready for it."