There’s times in basketball when, even if it’s just for a second, you realize that the game is simply that: just a game.  It’s a game that’s intended to be fun, despite its highly competitive nature.  On July 13, 2009, we met a young lady who would further remind us of the game’s beautiful nature and intention.
 
On the first day of the inaugural Maurice Lucas Ball Handling & Shooting Camp, a young lady was trying to find her way.  A lot of times, she looked a little out of place, and it was evident that her basketball skill level was not relatively high compared to several of the other kids who had been playing for years.  By the first day’s end, this little girl was very discouraged, as she felt that her skills were not where they needed to be, and she therefore concluded that she was “no good.” 
 
Despite going home discouraged her first day, Madeleine decided that she would fight to get better in her second day of camp.  She came to camp the next morning with a renewed focus and energy, even though she had just wanted to give up the day before.  Madeleine was accustomed to fighting off the court, so this on-court battle was a piece of cake for her.  She would go on to have a tremendous week of camp, improving on her skills daily, while always keeping an extremely positive attitude.  This all resulted in her receiving the award for “The Camper of the Week!”
 
After fighting several bouts with cancer before ever reaching a 7th birthday, Madeleine knew something that we so often forget: in the big scheme of things, basketball is just a game; a very competitive and opportunistic game, yet still just a game.  It’s a game that’s intended to bring joy through its pain, and it is capable of supplying an outlet from some of life’s hardships.  Madeleine, All In One Basketball honors you as our Spotlight Athlete because of your courage and because of your ability to keep basketball, and life, in perspective.  We love you Maddie!

Please view link to Madeleine’s page.

www.caringbridge.org/visit/madeleineobrien

 
 
All In One Basketball