On New Year’s Day, the MHS varsity basketball team took part in their fourth annual charity clinic for the West County Special Olympians at MHS.

“I’ve helped out with the New Year’s clinic for 3 years,”  junior and varsity basketball Matt Hink said. “It’s an annual event that runs from about 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.”

The clinic helps the Special Olympians play a game together and gives the players a chance to give back to their community.

“It brings you down to earth, just hanging out with them shows how much you really have,” Hink said.

Hink said taking part in the event helps him appreciate what he has and not take it for granted.

Varsity basketball Coach Shane Matzen said he looks forward to this program every year to see the players all come together and have a good time.

“The basic thing is that we think their work ethic and view of life is amazing, we benefit from a new point of view,” Matzen said.

The team comes out to assist with the clinic and play with the West County team every year.

“This year, all 15 of our varsity guys showed up to help, they all enjoy the clinic too, playing with the West County team is a lot of fun,” Matzen said.

“The varsity team does a lot to help the Special Olympians at the clinic such as rebounding their shots and helping them shoot,”  Matzen said. “We do skill development and play games for the most part.”

“On Friday, Feb. 1, the team will get to play a 10 minute basketball game before our match with Oakville,”  Matzen said. “We will also present them with a check for part of our fundraiser proceeds.”

“The crowd will love them, they bring such an excitement to the court,” Matzen said. “They’ll amaze everyone.”