Hoops on hiatus

Special Olympics basketball teams played an exhibition game at halftime of the Grafton High School girls’ game against visiting Port Washington in February. Ozaukee County Owl Christian Emery (11, left photo) looked to pass as teammate Alex Kirst stood ready while North Suburban’s Katie Zywicke (52) and Allison Koski tightened up on defense. Above, Jeff Srehlow (2) went up for a shot between defenders Nicholas Braam (53), Anna Couwenhoven (30) and Max Zwick (51). Earlier this season the Grafton girls’ team held a skills clinic for Special Olympics players that has become a yearly tradition for the program. Activities have been stopped due to the coronavirus, which impacts the athletes. North Shore Suburban Special Olympics Agency Manager Kevin Szydel said many athletes don’t understand the situation and now have time on their hands with nothing to do.            Photos by Sam Arendt