Pfeiffer hosts Special Olympians

In conjunction with Special Olympics Stanly County, the Pfeiffer University men's basketball program hosted local Special Olympians on the afternoon of Sept. 17 inside Merner Gymnasium.

A number of Pfeiffer men's basketball players and coaches along with Falcon cheerleaders and coaches volunteered their time to assist with the event. The Olympians marched into Merner Gymnasium through a tunnel of cheerleaders and players before getting some skill work.

The men's basketball team ran a camp at the beginning of the day that included passing, shooting and dribbling exercises and then the Special Olympians were put to test in drills that required offensive and defensive teamwork.

The day concluded with a basketball game to show off the skills that were learned throughout the day.

"Sunday was a great day for our basketball program as we partnered with the Special Olympic basketball programs from Stanly, Cabarrus, Rowan and Union counties," men's basketball head coach Jeremy Currier said. "The day was full of smiles and good competition, which is nice for us all to be a part of. This year was our largest turnout in seven years with 59 athletes in attendance.

"I want to thank all of the athletes that participated, Kathy Odell for working to build this great event each year, coach Valerie Rakes, coach Meredith Cole and our entire Cheer and Dance team who were tremendous all afternoon.

"It means so much to me, our coaching staff and players to be able to work with Special Olympics to host this event at Pfeiffer University annually."