UIC Basketball Team Hosts Skills Clinic for Those with Disabilities
- The Beautiful Lives Project, founded by Bryce Weiler in 2017, aims to provide sports experiences to individuals with disabilities.
- Over 76 participants learned basketball skills from 13 members of the UIC women's basketball team at an event in Chicago.
- This initiative not only enhances basketball skills but also boosts the confidence and morale of participants, empowering them to pursue their dreams.
On Thursday, the University of Illinois Chicago women's basketball team engaged in an event called the Beautiful Lives Project, aimed at providing sports opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The event, held at UIC's athletic center, saw over 76 participants learning basketball fundamentals from 13 players on the team. The initiative not only offered the chance to learn the game but also promoted morale and confidence among attendees, according to Mike Hubert, a special education teacher. Bryce Weiler, who founded the Beautiful Lives Project in 2017 after his experience on a basketball bench as a student, emphasized the event's role in helping participants believe in themselves. UIC's head coach, Ashleen Bracey, aimed to leverage their basketball experience to share knowledge and uplift others, highlighting the significance of providing support to those facing challenges. Danyel Middleton, a fifth-year UIC guard and advocate for individuals with disabilities, expressed the emotional impact of teaching others and the fulfillment it brings. The event ultimately aimed to foster confidence and a sense of community among those with disabilities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in sports education.