UD Arena was mostly bustling with media and staff getting ready for the beginning of March Madness when its doors opened to the public Tuesday morning.
However, there were a few fans excited to be a part of the experience even an hour before players set foot on the court for open practice. These dedicated fans came from the Graceworks enhanced living program, which is a 24-hour residential service for adults with intellectual disabilities in Dayton.
Theresa Hack, an employee accompanying the group, said that this was the fourth year the program was able to come to the arena.
“We’ve met some people in the marching band or cheerleaders over the year which is always so fun for us,” Hack said.
“I’m having a lot of fun,” said Graceworks resident Leslie Johnson.
The group of about 12 adults with chaperones, never fevered in their excitement, cheering for the marching band as they walked onto the court, and unabashedly dancing to the songs they played.
Graceworks is a Lutheran program that serves adults from 19- to 65-years old and has a facility in the area. They also have facilities for senior assisted living, and therapy and healthcare at home.