HCSD Special Olympians qualify for state

HARLAN — HCSD Special Olympians have been busy, competing in a bowling competition and January, and recently attending a basketball skills and cheerleading event February 7.
Eighteen cheerleaders and nine individuals competed in the primary and intermediate divisions. 
The five on five team earned first place, as did the 3v3 team. Six athletes qualified for the state competition, held in Des Moines March 13 and 14. 
Thomas Kurtz, HCSD Special Olympics Delegation Manager said he is proud of the athletes, and grateful to West Harrison school district for hosting the event. “I’m glad we got to go, and excited for the kids moving on.”
The date of the HCSD Inclusion Game has yet to be set, but Kurtz said it will be played in early March.
Photos clockwise: The five on five team (left to right): Anthony Emmons, Caiden Hicks, Ryan Polly, Savannah Ostrus, Zach Gross, Cooper Lansman; 3v3 team members Zoey Funke, Nicholas Gunderson, Preston Morrison, Samuel Bellemey, Maverick Kenkel; cheerleaders (front row)  Kenndi Jones and Asia Ostrus, (middle row) Bri Rivera, Kailee Schofield, Maryanne Juhl, Cadence Johnson, Olivia Schechinger, Savannah Greer, (back row)  Starr Washington, Madyson McCutcheon, Kiley Cote, Aubri Weldon, Reina Escarcega, Rosallie Hagle; Weston H. shows off his basketball skills. (Thomas Kurtz, photos)