Inclusive Spirit On The Court: DSACO's Annual Basketball Camp

The Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma is all about acceptance and inclusion of those with down syndrome, even on the basketball court.

“We’re a local 501c3 nonprofit that serves the down syndrome community in and around central Oklahoma,” said Rylee Cole with The Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma.

The concept for the basketball camp came ten years ago from coach Jerry Dockery when a down syndrome parent wanted more for her son.

“She said he was always the different one or the special one and she said I want something for my son and a lot of athletes like him,” said Basketball Camp Coach Jerry Dockery.

Ten years later coach Jerry is still coaching the camp and loving it.

“I coach high school kids a lot and I don’t laugh or smile as much with them as I do with these athletes,” said Dockery.

Make no mistake, these are athletes.

“I tell people all the time, looks can be deceiving and these guys and girls can play,” said Dockery.

“I’m really active in my OKC hotshot team,” said Camp Participant Heather.

Heather has attended the camp all 10 years and found her love for the sport through the camp.

“I’ve been learning a lot about point guards, cause that’s my role to help my team win,” said Heather.

 She credits coach Jerry and the DSACO camp for her skills on the court.

“He has had a huge impact on my life because he encouraged me to be the best basketball player I could be,” said Heather.

The camp is this Friday and Saturday, and it is open to anyone with down syndrome, but you must register to attend, and a real need is volunteers.

“Running after stray balls or encouragement, you know, 'you did it' or YAY,” said Cole.

Bring the energy because these kids will be ready.

“This is a camp they don’t miss they look for it every year,” said Cole.

There is still time to sign up for the camp as a participant or a volunteer. To sign up or for more information about DSACO visit www.dsaco.org/volunteer.