Bobby Martinez – Sports Reporter
Not just on the court, but off the court, Owls men’s basketball team has been making a difference in putting smiles on people faces. Recently, the Owls, with the help of Beta Mu Sigma Fraternity, held a Special Olympics basketball clinic teaching young kids numerous basketball drills.
“It’s great to be around a variety of different people with such different personalities,” said sophomore center Lucas Van Nes.
Beta Mu Sigma has been a part of Southern Connecticut State University since 1959. According to Southern’s website, Beta Mu Sigma, “in 1989, Beta decided to become a colony of Sigma Pi. Over time Sigma Pi and Beta Mu Sigma’s traditions still existed and thrived through. In 1998, Sigma Pi slowly left campus, and in 2000, the rebirth of Beta Mu Sigma took place.”
As for the Owls, this is one of the few community service jobs they will be hosting this year through the Tim Greer Insurance Agency Community Service Cup. Junior forward Stefon Williams, said hosting events is something he loves doing because it makes being an athlete something special.
“This is why I like being an athlete here at Southern,” said Williams. “Seeing the kids smile while playing basketball was one of the best feelings I have ever experienced. One of the main reasons why I go out and play every day is not only the love I have for the game, but also inspiring young kids.”
The Owls have used the community as fuel in winning games throughout last year’s season said Van Nes. With a 16-1 record at home, the Owls experienced an unfamiliar setting last season as far as fan support. For the first time in numerous years, Owls basketball games were the topic of discussion on and off campus.
Van Nes said the community support is important because they help each and every player on the team enjoy the game even more.
“The community is huge for us,” said Van Nes. “It works both ways, we support them and they support us. The atmosphere that was created last year, especially during the second half of the year, freaks teams out. Nowhere else in the conference has the crowd we do. It definitely gives us an edge come game time.”
During this Special Olympic event, kids had the opportunity to take part in warm-ups such as layup drills followed by a five-on-five basketball coached by some of the Owl players.
Williams said seeing smiles on the kids’ faces playing together was something he will carry into this season. He added, “seeing the kids in the stands this year, I know they want to grow up and be where I’m at playing basketball at a college, or even better. I want to go out there every night this season and play as hard as I can because I want to let these young kids know, they can achieve whatever they want in life no matter what.”
With the season just around the corner, Van Nes said it’s a good feeling being a part of community events because it makes being an athlete that much better.
“It’s a rewarding feeling,” said Van Nes. “When we’re playing every day, it puts things in perspective for us and let us know how lucky we are to do what we do. We’re all thankful to be playing and also to be able to give back when we can.”
Photo Credit: SCSU Owls
