Buzzy Teams Up with the Special Olympics
Last month, Team Buzzy had the honor of hitting the court with the Schuylkill County Special Olympics crew for an unforgettable night of fun, hoops & giving back! It wasn’t just a basketball game, it was about connection, and giving back in the best kinds of ways. 🥰
We laced up our sneakers for a friendly showdown against two fierce and fun 3v3 teams: the Schuylkill Amigas and the Schuylkill Yetis. And in case you’re wondering, yes, we got owned – big time! But every basket we missed and every basket we made was met with encouragement, a high-five, and the kind of sportsmanship that reminds you of what really matters.
As for the Highlights…
One of the standout moments came when Chuck from our PA office found himself trying to guard Dave, a total rockstar on the court with a heart just as big as his jump shot. After Dave made basket after basket with ease, Chuck turned to him and joked, “I want to be on your team! Besides, your uniforms are way better.” Without missing a beat, Dave ran over to the bench and asked Coach if Chuck could join their team. League rules wouldn’t allow it but Dave didn’t stop there, he wanted to give Chuck a team shirt so he would feel welcomed. That’s the kind of generosity that just sticks with you for years to come.
Coach Kassy from Buzzy Seeds summed up the evening perfectly. “Our team put their all out on the court and showed off their skills during the game. I admit, I kind of talked a little smack before the game…so they gave us no mercy! I can tell you Buzzy did not win by a lot, but no matter how hard we tried they just stayed ahead of us every step of the way. But my favorite part of the whole experience? The laughs and smiles on everyone’s faces. It was just priceless and made my day!”
And Beth from Buzzy had an incredible experience. “It was fun playing in the game and watching the others play from the bench. The athletes were competitive, caring and so sweet. The fundraising part was above and beyond, a lot of food and snack choices, a Buzzy basket raffle and cool t-shirts for sale. The volunteers were so welcoming and friendly. I look forward to participating in another event and next year’s game.”
But the night was more than just a game, it was a fundraising event filled with camaraderie and love. We put together a box of our favorite Buzzy flower kits for the silent auction, which added a little something special to the night. It was fun seeing the smiles and watching the winner with the highest bid cheer and claim their prize! In the end, we raised $443.00 with proceeds going directly to the Special Olympics program to help provide uniforms, transportation, and equipment to these amazing athletes.
The program leader gave a heartfelt speech during halftime, thanking Team Buzzy for not only showing up to play, but also for helping raise funds that truly make a difference.
Crystal from Team Buzzy added, “Every year we come back, it feels more and more like a family reunion. Seeing their incredible spirit and positive attitudes on the court is a powerful reminder to embrace a “work hard, play hard balance in life."
We couldn’t agree more!
From the energy on the court to the warmth from every volunteer and athlete, this night was a reminder of the best parts of being on a team - lifting each other up. We may have lost (by a lot), but we walked away as winners in every other way.
Thank you to the Schuylkill Amigas, the Schuylkill Yetis, Coach Kassy and Team Buzzy, and the entire Special Olympics crew for letting us be part of something so meaningful.
We’ll see you next year! Until then, we’ll be practicing. So be ready! 😉
Photos by: John Corrales
