Mike ‘The Mean Machine’ and Shane ‘Everready Bunny’ Take on the Basketball

Shane (13) and Mike(9) with their team

Michael ‘The Mean Machine’ Karseboom and Shane ‘Everready Bunny’ Doowage had the privilege of participating in their first Special Olympic National Games as members of the awesome NSW mixed basketball team.  These enthusiastic athletes played with enjoyment, tenacity and sportsmanship in true Special Olympic spirit, never giving up against more experienced teams.

Eventually their dedication was rewarded as they won their last game of the tournament with amazing teamwork and supportive coaches cheering them on from the sideline.  The athletes deservedly felt like champions and their elation at winning was unbelievable.

The team was placed sixth and Mike was the highest goal scorer for almost every match.

But winning isn’t everything.  When Mike was asked what was the best part of his week he answered that it was “…meeting Aaron my coach, making so many new friends and having the most fun I have ever had!!”

Our tallest SOSUNS athlete, Jackson Fennell, was a member of the open men’s team.  This team rewarded loyal supporters with a breathtakingly close game in the bronze medal playoff match against Queensland.  With minutes to go NSW were 10 points up but Queensland were not finished yet and played well to win by 2 points.  It was an exciting match talked about right through the athlete camp.