Tri-County Pioneers

More Than a Basketball Game

By Kylee Hinkle 

Bringing greater meaning to basketball, many schools in USD 259 and even ones right next door have created the Tri-County Basketball League for their athletes with special needs.

These last few months our Tri-County Pioneers have played many other schools.  On Friday,  March 30th, the Pioneers headed to the South YMCA to compete in their last games of the season at an all league tournament.

They first faced NorthWest in a head to head close battle. During this match Kendrick Smith, #12, shot an amazing three pointer with nothing but net! NorthWest was a hard team to face. Even though our Pioneers lost with an ending score of 38-57, this did not stop them. 

"You can't knock these kids pride," said Coach Ted Hilger. "These kids come into practice every day ready to work hard, ready to give their all. Out here on the court they play hard and have fun and that's all that matters."  

Entering game two Pioneers were ready to face South High, but South High was a no show. Maybe they didn't get the memo? Who cares? There's one last game to be played! 

The final game against Valley Center was a close match. The Pioneers were ahead at the end of the first quarter. But the Hornets fought hard through the whole game, with a roller coaster of scores. 

Pioneer star player Sienna Rollen, #7, racked up over 20 points in the final game alone. However the Hornets made one final come back and beat the Pioneers with a score of 57-48. 

Despite the losses, the Pioneers thoroughly enjoyed the rest of their day. They knew they brought their A-game to the table and effort is all that mattered. 

West High Assistant Principal Larry Sadd asked, "What's the difference between winning and losing?" 

His own answer, "It's how you feel after the game. These guys might drop their heads for a second but they know they played their best and they are just happy they gave their all. I love these guys!" 

This season ends with smiles and a passion for what next year's season has to bring for our Pioneers in the Tri-County League.