The Oak Park and River Forest High School Special Education basketball program fared well at the Special Olympics Illinois State Basketball Tournament, March 13-15, in downstate Bloomington-Normal.
The Huskies had two individuals win skill competitions. Mikey Bevan won the M21 10-foot basket division with a score of 43 points, and Liam Kirby was third with 51 points. In the M19 division, Jude Simkowski had a winning score of 47 points.
“The skills competition is an event that allows athletes to showcase their individual basketball abilities through a series of challenges focused on dribbling, passing, and shooting,” said OPRF coach Ashley Coletti. “Each athlete competed in events designed to highlight their specific skill set, and their performances reflected the hard work they’ve put in throughout the season.
“Jude, Liam, and Mikey spent time practicing and preparing during team practices, focusing on the fundamentals and building confidence in their abilities. Their dedication and effort showed in their performances at the competition. The rest of the team was incredibly excited and proud of their teammates’ success.”
Also in Bloomington-Normal, OPRF’s Blue Team finished third in the state tournament. Blue Team members are Tyler Anderson-Mays, Madison Conyers, Bridey Cullerton, Archer Eckart-Donahue, Melanna Jordan, Gabe Kleidon, Amadou Mbengue, Ariel Molden, Ellie Potter, Laila Radhakisson, and Kellen Rotatori.
“The Blue Team had an impressive performance against some very tough opponents,” Coletti said. “Throughout the tournament, they demonstrated strong teamwork, determination, and growth, competing hard in every game.”
She added, “The team showed great chemistry on the court, supporting one another and staying positive, even in high-pressure moments. Their effort, sportsmanship, and commitment to improving all season long played a key role in their success.
“Their third-place finish is a significant accomplishment and a reflection of the hard work they’ve put in all year. The entire program is incredibly proud of the Blue Team and how they represented our school at the state level.”
Coletti is proud of how well her athletes served as ambassadors for OPRF and the community.
“Overall, it was an amazing experience for everyone involved,” she said, “and we are very proud of all of our athletes who represented our program so well.”