Hannibal Special Olympics basketball teams to begin practicing Nov. 2

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Special Olympics basketball teams are beginning practices at the Admiral Coontz Recreation Center. The Hannibal Special Olympics team practices from 4:30-5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays starting Wednesday, Nov. 2, and will practice through March.

“We are honored to give these athletes a place to play each week,” Jenna McDonald, recreation supervisor at Hannibal Parks and Recreation, said in a press release.

The Rec Center stays open to the public while practice is going on. However, a court is reserved for Special Olympics.

The entire team is called Hannibal Hawks Special Olympics team. The members are divided into smaller teams, depending on skill level. Some teams play 3-on-3 games, and some teams practice dribbling, shooting and passing. They have several tournaments planned for the year, including one in January and March.

Kathy Butler, community coordinator for Marion County Services for the Developmentally Disabled, said the athletes discover new strengths and abilities, skills and success as they play sports. 

Butler is seeking coaches to help at practices and games. She can be contacted at 712-355-0012.

“Once you volunteer with these athletes, a whole new world opens up,” she said.