ALLENDALE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — The third Court of Dreams event was held at Grand Valley State University’s Allendale campus Wednesday, offering people with disabilities the opportunity to connect with college basketball players.
“They did shooting, dribbling, passing, defensive drills, a wide range of stations to teach them basketball skills,” event organizer Bryce Weiler said. “And most importantly, give them that opportunity to become friends with the Grand Valley State players and coaching staff.”
Weiler said the goal of the organization he co-founded, the Beautiful Lives Project, is to uplift those with disabilities, starting with belief and action.
“Giving them a chance to realize that they should believe in themselves and try to live their dreams on a daily basis and know that there are people there who want to support them and help them to be successful,” Weiler said.
On Wednesday, that support came from the GVSU men’s basketball team.
“In the men’s program, we are here to serve, serve the community or the campus community. It is very important for our student-athletes, my basketball players to learn humility (and) grace and to give back and show love at all times throughout life,” head coach Cornell Mann said.
Teachers who brought students to the program say building confidence is important for students in and out of the classroom.
“We do a lot of community-based instruction, and this is part of it. We want to be represented in the community and we thought this was a fantastic opportunity. All of the basketball players are helping them out and we want to give them the chance that everyone else has,” Mike Rotman, a teacher at Spring Lake Public Schools, said.
Players taught the students the fundamentals of the game. They were encouraged to be confident, take their own shots and learn new skills.
“They are loving it. You can see some of their reactions, lots of smiles, and everybody seems like they are enjoying the experience,” Rotman said.
Weiler thanked the GVSU team for sharing its time and skills to support the community.
“If the community here in Michigan wants to do more events, we do events on cheerleading, art, and dance teams as well, and if people are willing to donate that helps us do more events to cover the cost of insurance and give participants’ things to take home after the event,” Weiler said.
To donate to the Beautiful Lives Project, click here.