'A chance to give back'

For Centralia College women's basketball coach Tiffany Twiddy, it was a chance to come full circle.

"For people that know me, Skok is my tribe and my people," Twiddy wrote in a text message. "It means something to me to be able to come back home and put on an event that's positive for young hoopers."

Twiddy wrote that as a college coach, she strives to see her players grow as leaders and that it's exciting to see them give back and work with Skok youth athletes.

"I think all of us, coaches and players, have had a moment where a camp or workout has impacted us big time as hoopers. Maybe some of these campers are experiencing that feeling or maybe it's just fun."

Twiddy said it's people including Bo Tinaza, Fawn Gouley, Willie Grover and Chris James who are working with the Skok youth daily who are "100% doing this work every day and making a huge impact on the lives of Skok youth," but that her players serving as coaches are getting a great experience in leadership and mentorship.

"The Skok pups are getting a quality hoops workout and fun day in the gym. I see it as a win-win and an awesome full circle moment for me as a tribal member and college coach. It's really been special for the athletes on my team as well. So many of them would like to work with kids, teaching or coaching in the future. It's been really fun to experience and it's making all of us better."