Michael Cooper Camp to Offer Special Meet and Greet with Shoni Schimmel this Season

By Rodney Harwood

Shoni Schimmel has always been a dream catcher, bold enough to chase her dreams and strong enough to carry the message of Native Pride.

The 22-year-old Umatilla’s following reached new heights last year during her rookie season with the Atlanta Dream. Now she’s ready to take it to the next level in her second professional season and Michael Cooper Basketball Camp is offering package deals for 125 people to be a part of the Native American Heritage celebrations when the Atlanta Dream travel to Seattle and Phoenix this summer.

“We took 40 kids to Seattle last year. Everybody had such a good time, we’ve added Phoenix to the schedule this year,” promoter Monty Marengo said. “This year we’ve expanded the number to 125 fans at each location. The game in Seattle will be nationally televised and of course in Phoenix, they’re going against the defending WNBA champion Mercury. So this is going to be something pretty special.”

Participants will have an opportunity to see Schimmel and Dream head coach Michael Cooper at a meet-and-greet prior to Atlanta’s game July 14 against the reigning WNBA champions at the newly renamed Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix. In addition to the photo and autograph session, the package also includes a game ticket, food and drink, and a chance to get up close and personal look at one of the rising stars in women’s basketball. Other packages for the Phoenix game include: Six minutes of primetime play on the floor before the Dream-Mercury game; an opportunity to visit the Mercury locker room and then cut down the nets following the game; or receive an autographed official WNBA ball during introductions at mid-court.

Packages for the July 18 game in Seattle include: a meet-and-greet with Schimmel and Cooper before the game; a chance to play on the same floor as Schimmel prior to the game; shake hands with the Atlanta Dream in the fan tunnel as the team enters the floor; and a chance to receive an autographed WNBA ball during player introductions.

“The Seattle Storm was very accommodating when we asked if we could welcome the Dream onto the floor, even though they are the visitors, since we are primarily a Native group. They made the adjustments so we can welcome Shoni and the Dream,” Marengo said. “We’ll also have something new this year with powwow dancers and drum groups performing at halftime in both Seattle and Phoenix.”

The groups will be limited to 125 Shoni Schimmel fans, so early registration is recommended. Registration is on a first come, first serve basis.

To register or for more information contact Monty Marengo at (406) 212-1699 or email montymarengo@yahoo.com.