Eatonville Cruiser Special Olympics Team Clinches Gold in Southwest Region Sub-Regional Basketball Event

In a thrilling showcase of teamwork and skill, the Eatonville Cruiser Special Olympics team secured 1st place and a gold medal today at the Southwest Region Sub-Regional Basketball event hosted at Thurgood Marshall Middle School in Olympia.

The Eatonville Cruiser Special Olympics team poses with the gold medals after capturing 1st place at the team skills competition. The team from left to right: Coach Sam Kralik, Christian Stacy, Trever Stacy, Jason Pederson, Leah Smiley, Maya Frink, Allison Collins, Ayden Hildebrand, Aaron Schmidt, and Coach Cody Jumper. Photo: Michelle Frink

The competition featured five teams battling it out in the team skills completion. The Cruisers' journey to victory began in the first round, where they dominated the Clark County Bear Cats with a commanding 92-66 win, propelling them into the quarterfinals.

In a nail-biting quarterfinal matchup, the Cruisers faced off against the University Place Pride, narrowly emerging victorious with a final score of 86-85.

Undeterred, they continued their winning streak in the semifinals, defeating the Grays Harbor Gray Hawks 95-87 and earning their spot in the championship match.

The title showdown saw the Cruisers squaring off against their quarterfinals opponent, the University Place Pride, once again. Displaying unwavering determination, Eatonville secured a 96-92 victory, claiming first place and the coveted gold medals.

Throughout the tournament, the Cruisers consistently approached the maximum possible score of 110 points, showcasing the remarkable skills possessed by each player. This achievement underscores the team's prowess and resilience in each game.

The coaching duo of local Eatonville teens, Cody Jumper and Sam Kralik, played a pivotal role in guiding the team to success. Their leadership and great coaching were instrumental in the Cruisers' triumphant campaign.

With this victory, the Cruisers have earned a spot in the upcoming divisional event scheduled for February 10th at Thurgood Marshall Middle School in Olympia.

As they prepare for the next challenge, the Eatonville Cruiser Special Olympics team remains a force to be reckoned with in the realm of inclusive sportsmanship.