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Local Special Olympians make state basketball finals
The Cougars, Union County's Special Olympics basketball team, advance to the state tournament for the first time in program history.
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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The Cougars, Union County's Special Olympics basketball team, made program history this week by winning the South Central Regional Basketball Tournament and advancing to the state finals. For the first time ever, the Cougars will represent the region at the State Indoor Winter Games at Ohio State University.
Why it matters
This is a significant achievement for the Cougars and the Union County Special Olympics program, as they have never before reached the state finals. It showcases the hard work and dedication of the athletes and coaches, and provides them with the opportunity to compete at the highest level of their sport.
The details
The Cougars' roster includes head coach Zach Noland, assistant coaches Austin Noland and Eric Bodine, and players Leo Wright, Cayden Larriuz, Andrew Wright, Corey Ford, Auston Cunningham, Chase Gibson, Ivan Green, Quinton Bodine, and DJ Litzke. The team won the regional tournament to earn their spot in the state finals.
- The Cougars won the South Central Regional Basketball Tournament this week.
- The State Indoor Winter Games at Ohio State University will take place in the coming months.
The players
Zach Noland
Head coach of the Union County Cougars Special Olympics basketball team.
Austin Noland
Assistant coach of the Union County Cougars Special Olympics basketball team.
Eric Bodine
Assistant coach of the Union County Cougars Special Olympics basketball team.
Leo Wright
Player on the Union County Cougars Special Olympics basketball team.
Cayden Larriuz
Player on the Union County Cougars Special Olympics basketball team.
What’s next
The Cougars will compete in the State Indoor Winter Games at Ohio State University in the coming months.
The takeaway
The Cougars' historic achievement in reaching the state finals for the first time showcases the hard work and dedication of the Union County Special Olympics program, and provides the athletes with the opportunity to compete at the highest level of their sport.
