Basketball tournament promotes inclusivity

SOMO athletes, students from six area districts unite in Russellville

March 6, 2024 at 4:00 a.m.

by Garrett Fuller

Democrat photo/Garrett Fuller Camdenton High School senior Brandon Ziegler, center, decides whether or not to take a 3-pointer Feb. 28 during the Special Olympics basketball tournament at Russellville High School. Ziegler hit many 3s throughout the tournament, both in the team skills and 3-on-3 tournaments.
Democrat photo/Garrett Fuller Camdenton High School senior Brandon Ziegler, center, decides whether or not to take a 3-pointer Feb. 28 during the Special Olympics basketball tournament at Russellville High School. Ziegler hit many 3s throughout the tournament, both in the team skills and 3-on-3 tournaments.

RUSSELLVILLE, Mo. -- "Let me win, but if I do not win, let me be brave in the attempt."

Students representing six schools repeated those words -- just spoken by Russellville High School student Maelyne Cartee -- on Feb.