Military Adaptive Court Sports (MACS) Represents at the 3WallBall World Championships
by Terry Rogers
For the past eight years, Mike Coulter has graciously allowed MACS to host a special adaptive division and a ProAm Doubles as a fundraiser, inviting the Nellis Color Guard to a special ceremony Saturday evening at the 3WallBall World Championships. This year was another successful event for the participating veterans and a showcase for MACS and their mission. The proceeds from the ProAm event and a raffle benefited MACS and their rehabilitation clinics throughout the country.
MACS participation began with the ProAm Doubles Wednesday evening. Eight donors rotated with the pros in a two-hour fun-filled round robin. Charles George from Colorado emerged as the victor followed by Rosco Halsey from Kansas. There were smiles all around as the results were announced, awards were presented, and pictures were taken.
MACS ProAm Doubles donors and pros – THANKS!
Charles George and Terry Rogers with support from our Service Members
MACS participation began with the ProAm Doubles Wednesday evening. Eight donors rotated with the pros in a two-hour fun-filled round robin. Charles George from Colorado emerged as the victor followed by Rosco Halsey from Kansas. There were smiles all around as the results were announced, awards were presented, and pictures were taken.
EARLY Thursday morning saw the Adaptive Division doubles get started. Five veterans (from the ongoing clinic held weekly at Las Vegas Athletic Club and coached by Terry Rogers) participated, and thanks to the generous donation of flights from Allegiant Airlines, three veterans and their coach, Raymond Bierner, from Phoenix were able to attend as well.
Round robin play continued for three mornings as the veterans, many playing outdoor racquetball for the first time, were paired with volunteer outdoor players who coached as they played their games. After the final round, there was a tie and we went to a two-game playoff where Ken Shockley defeated Ernest Diemoz to cap off the division. EVERYONE had a great time!
MACS Adaptive Division players, coaches, and their partners
Brent Hoskins, Ernest Diemoz, Ken Shockley, Rosco Halsey – CONGRATS!
Saturday was a special day as thirteen active service members were on hand at the event to answer questions, sell raffle tickets, and man the MACS booth. The evening culminated with the Nellis Color Guard presenting the colors in a heart-warming ceremony.
MACS cannot thank Mike Coulter enough for all he has done and continues to do for our organization by allowing us to be a part of this awesome tournament. Every veteran who has ever attended always leaves with a smile on their face and thoughts of returning next year.
For more information on MACS, visit https://militaryadaptivecourtsports.org, and if you would like to get involved, contact Terry Rogers at rogersta@comcast.net.
Photo Credits Sara Albarran, Ken Shockley, and Scott Smith