Shelli Rampold, Assistant Professor

The University of Tennessee men’s and women’s basketball teams sprang into the new semester, ready for more than wins on the court and cheers during the season; they came ready to cheer on others in the local community through a partnership with the Down Syndrome Awareness Group (DSAG) of East Tennessee.

On Saturday, August 26, our ALEC student athletes filed into the Farragut High School gym for the post-pandemic return of the annual Hoops for Hope event. Hoops for Hope invites people with Down Syndrome out for a day of fun and free throw shots with college athletes.

Shawen Rampold, a Knoxville resident and participant in the event, enjoyed getting autographs from each athlete. “It was one of the best events of my life this year,” said Rampold.

The ALEC student athletes who participated echoed this sentiment. Tess Darby, an ALEC master’s student and member of the Lady Vols basketball team, said “I always look forward to at the end of August. Getting to share my passion for the game of basketball with kids who love it just as much is really special to me. Giving back to this community who has given me so much and supported me here during my time on Rocky Top is just really special.” 

P’hariz Watkins, a master’s student and graduate assistant for the Lady Vols, reflected on his first year participating with Hoops for Hope. “The energy, love, and care from everyone involved is what truly makes the event a special one. I’m thankful I had the opportunity to meet such great kids, people and families.” Watkins added, “Being able to share the game of basketball with them brought me a smile and honestly, they made an impact that I will forever be thankful for.”

Hoops for Hope is slated to return next season.