Ocean Bay Middle special needs student’s dream comes true on the basketball court

CAROLINA FOREST, SC (WBTW) – Wednesday, a special needs Ocean Bay Middle School student was able to live one of his dreams, playing in his final basketball game at the school, with the help of two of his teammates.

For many 13 and 14-year-olds, making the basketball team is the closest they can get to emulate their favorite professionals. Ryan Venazio is no different. He loves the sport, however he doesn’t play.

Venazio was diagnosed with cancer at 18 months. It affected his development, like hearing and he couldn’t walk until he was 2-years-old.

Even though he’s not on the court he’s still a big part of the team.

“Ryan is the definition of being selfless. He’s here just because he wants to be a part of it and he doesn’t care about his role,” said Ocean Bay Middle School Head Basketball Coach, Marc Lowery.

At the games, you can always see Venazio cheering on his teammates, but after Wednesday that will change.

“This is my last game,” said Venazio.

Venazio is an 8^th grader and next year he will move on from the school. Two of his teammates wanted to make sure his last game was a memorable one.

“Why not just let Ryan play the half because there is always next year for us and it’s Ryan’s potentially last game,” said 7^th grade teammate, Ethan Hillman.

Hillman and another 7^th grade teammate, Corbin Pack, gave up their numbers during the game so that Ryan could play in his final game.

Hillman says he does not see it as letting Venazio use his number.

“I think it’s more of me representing him in the first half; it’s his number not mine,” said Hillman.

Pack and Hillman might be just as excited as Venazio about the opportunity.

A few weeks ago against St. James, Venazio got into the game and even scored a basket. Hillman and Corbin say a video of the basket went viral and during the game the crowds on both sides exploded with cheers.

But Venazio’s family didn’t know he would get in that night and missed him playing in the game. The Venazio family was told in advance Ryan would be playing Wednesday night. Joe Venazio, Ryan’s father, says he was ecstatic to see his son play for the first time in a game.

Venazio held his own on defense and made sure to congratulate everyone who played, even the other team, but did not score this time around. But the night was still memorable for Venazio, his family, and his team; and Ocean Bay did end up winning the game.