PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Snowdogs are getting set to make their annual trek south, with basketball being the main purpose but other fun events also on the agenda.
Members of Aroostook County’s Special Olympics basketball team are making final preparations for this weekend’s state tournament being held at the University of Southern Maine in Gorham March 18.
The Snowdogs are entering three teams in the competition and a total of 33 athletes plus manager are participating. The teams include six volunteer coaches and 12 additional chaperones, and coach Brian Hamel expects 100 other supporters to make the trek to cheer on the squads.
“We will travel to southern Maine in a Cyr Bus Lines motor coach, spend two nights in a hotel, dine in local area restaurants and will be the guests of honor at an NBA Development Maine Red Claws basketball game,” Hamel said of the weekend plans.
Hamel said the March 17-19 trip is made possible by very generous donors in our community.
An anonymous donor in the community donated hybrid backpack/duffle bags that have been personalized with the Snowdogs name, the Special Olympics logo and participants’ first names embroidered on the bags.
“The Snowdogs are very appreciative of this donation and all the other donations received that allow them to participate in this weekend long journey to southern Maine,” Hamel said. “This tournament is the highlight of our year and allows the Snowdogs to compete against their peers throughout the state. It is always very competitive while at the same time respectful.”
Hamel added that it is always a proud moment to witness the Snowdogs’ successes on and off the basketball court.
“There are so many life lessons learned during this trip and I’m honored to be a part of it,” he said.
