FEATURE: DWU women’s basketball gives back

MITCHELL, S.D. – Earlier this month, the Dakota Wesleyan University women's basketball team put on a basketball camp for nearly 40 students at St. Joseph's Indian School in Chamberlain, S.D.

 Faculty coordinator Mike Pooley, a former resident of Mitchell and a DWU graduate, was receptive to the idea of having the team work with the students.

 "It has been pretty special and receptive for the kids," Pooley said. "Hopefully it is something that we can do moving forward."

 The camp consisted of current DWU student-athletes showcasing their skills and helping the students learn the game of basketball in an interactive setting, led by head coach Jason Christensen. Following the camp on Sunday, the women's basketball team attended church on the campus of the school and were given a tour by the faculty and students of the school that was founded in 1927.

 Bryan Rimehart, recreation center athletic director and coordinator also mention how it was important for the students to get first-hand experience with current basketball players.

 "It's a great opportunity to work with them on the floor and personally get to see them," Rimehart said. "It's the first time we have done this with DWU, and it is a good idea for our kids and gives them an idea what to strike for maybe playing collegiate basketball and having a one-on-one relationship and letting them know it is a reality for them."