The Nanaimo Special Olympic basketball squad were invited to practice at the VIU gym on Feb. 21, with several Mariner players in attendance to coach, mentor, and support the local athletes. (VIU Mariners)

By Jordan Davidson

slam dunk

‘It’s great for our athletes:’ VIU Mariners practice with local Special Olympians

Feb 22, 2024 | 3:20 PM

NANAIMO — The Nanaimo Special Olympics basketball team upgraded their practice location this week, with some star athletes teaching them some new skills.

Vancouver Island University (VIU) opened its gym to the team on Wednesday, Feb. 21, along with several members of the VIU Mariners basketball teams who came out to coach, mentor and support the Special Olympians.

Co-coach of the Special Olympic team Deborah Cooper said their basketball players were thrilled to practice in a high-calibre setting with Mariner players.

“These are what you would expect, big, tall basketball player guys. They’re able to do a slam dunk, and it’s inspiring for our athletes to see. As coaches we do the best we can as volunteers, but to have some guys who are coming out and really know their stuff…it’s great for our athletes to have that exposure.”

Members of the VIU Mariners men’s team ran through drills with the Nanaimo Special Olympians. Players from the women’s basketball team were also in attendance providing additional support and encouragement. (Submitted/Deborah Cooper)

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Cooper said their team has about 24 regular players who range in age from 12 to 30, and are preparing to play in teams from across Vancouver Island during regionals in Port Alberni on March 2 for a chance to qualify for provincials next year.

The connection with VIU began when a volunteer coach reached out to the Mariners basketball squad to see if any players wanted to join the Special Olympic team practice at École Quarterway Elementary School.

Cooper told NanaimoNewsNOW three athletes showed up the first time to volunteer, which was a thrilling experience for her players.

“We were grateful to have three guys come out and they spend some time with our athletes and have been coming out weekly to help out at practices, and it’s very motivating for our athletes to see these guys that are obviously very well-skilled, to come out and be giving them tips and helping out at our practices.”

She said they are always looking for volunteers to help coach their athletes in a wide range of sports.

More information on how you can participate can be found here on their website.

“It was such a great experience for everyone – we’re so grateful to the VIU coaches and the teams for taking the time to work with our group.”

(Submitted/Deborah Cooper)

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On Twitter: @JordanDHeyNow