BETHLEHEM, Pa. --- Moravian College's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee hosted its 2nd Annual Special Olympics Basketball Tournament on Saturday, April 5 in Timothy Breidegam Fieldhouse in conjunction with NCAA Division III Week. The event was a huge success as every player, coach and spectator left the gym with a smile on their face.

"Watching the joy and excitement on every player's face reminded me of why I love sports," said junior SAAC secretary and field hockey player Emily Marley.

Over 60 Special Olympic athletes from both the Lehigh and Bethlehem chapters played a number of 3 vs. 3 and 5 vs. 5 basketball games throughout the day. Over 70 of Moravian's student-athletes from men's and women's basketball, field hockey, football, men's and women's soccer, and volleyball teams participated in the event. The student-athletes made posters, officiated the games, prepared the free lunch for the guests, and cheered the participants from the sidelines.

SAAC president and men's soccer goalie Brian Boland helped run the event and noted that the athletes at Moravian College were happy to give back to their community in this small, but effective way.

"This is such a terrific event and our student-athletes really enjoy working with the Special Olympic athletes," SAAC Advisor and Head Women's Volleyball Coach Shelley Bauder commented. "The directors and coaches from Lehigh and Bethlehem were so appreciative and said that their athletes talk about this event all year long. It goes without saying that reaching out to these Special Olympic athletes in turn touches our Hound athletes in a way they will remember for a long time."

Click here to view a photo gallery of the event.

You can also check out a video recap.