BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Crawford County Unified Exhibition Game was a memorable way to wrap up DD Awareness Month, bringing this year’s “World of Opportunities” theme to life. The event united Special Olympics athletes and high school players on the same court, creating an inspiring display of inclusion, teamwork, and community.
There was no shortage of standout moments throughout the night. Bill Losey energized the crowd by sinking not just one, but two three-point shots, his first ever. Danny Shambaugh followed with an impressive three-pointer from nearly half court, then faced his dad and coach, David Shambaugh, in the “Throw for Dough” challenge, where he secured the win by landing three bean bags in the bucket.
First-year assistant coach Josh Zakro was presented with the traveling “Most Awesome Coach of the Year” trophy, a fun tradition passed along each year. Meanwhile, Coach David Shambaugh is still chasing that title after three years of trying.
The energy on the court was just as entertaining as the action itself. Larai Aichholz had the crowd smiling with her “make-a-basket boogie,” while Aizlee Boswell earned the nickname “2-Point Princess” thanks to her consistent scoring. Deb Dunbar had a strong fan section behind her, complete with supporters waving signs featuring her face.
Jacklyn Nagle stood out with her creative “out of my way” moves, and Jeremiah Gale, returning from retirement this year, surprised everyone, including himself, by knocking down his first-ever three-point shot.
Adding to the fun, Mandi Moran and Becky Lutz, known as the “Wonder Twins,” kept the crowd laughing with their lively commentary throughout the game. The cheer squad and high school cheerleaders also helped keep the energy high, entertaining the crowd with their halftime cheers.
More than anything, the Chargers showed what unified sports are all about, encouraging one another, working together, and celebrating every success as a team.
A big thank you goes out to everyone who attended and helped make the night possible. Events like the Crawford County Unified Exhibition Game don’t happen without a true team effort behind the scenes, and it showed in every detail.
The game was the perfect way to wrap up DD Awareness Month, bringing the “World of Opportunities” theme to life. Seeing high school varsity athletes and Special Olympics athletes share the court was a powerful reminder of what inclusion really looks like.
The support from the community, cheering, celebrating, and showing up in a big way, made the night even more special.
In the end, it wasn’t just about basketball. It was about connection, inclusion, and creating a space where everyone belongs.