I’m winding down the Bear River basketball broadcast season, and for the first time in memory, the Lady Bruins will not be heading to the playoffs because of their record. (They missed once because of a self imposed postseason ban several years ago). It’s been a tough year, including last night’s loss to Placer. But I was treated to something special during my pregame interviews. You see, very quietly, a couple of weeks ago, the Freshman Lady Bruins took part in a special moment, allowing a Placer Lady Hillmen, Jocyleen Ditico, to play…and score…during their basketball game. Jocyleen has autism, and basketball brings her joy. So, what do I see last night in the Bear River practice gym? The Lady Hillmen, with Jocyleen, and the Lady Bruins playing a full court pick up game! No one is keeping score…all the players are just making sure that Jocyleen is scoring…and they are all having fun. And teaching us all about love and tolerance for one another. What great kids!!

Tom Fitzsimmons
Administrator
Tom Fitzsimmons is the Program Director for Nevada County Broadcasters, and morning show host at KNCO NewsTalk 830, but his favorite job is being husband to Roxanne and Dad to his daughter's Katie and Kelly, and step dad to Tyson and Megan. Tom and Roxanne just became grandparents with the birth of Megan's daughter, Hazel Virginia. Tom also is the voice of High School Football and Basketball play by play. His hobbies include playing and watching all sports and taking long hikes both locally and in the Sierras with his dog, Angel. He also has taken up distance running and just started to get into road cycling.
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