Photo Story: Never Stop Doing What You Love
Basketball players of all ages gather at the lower courts of the University of Oregon recreational center at 12 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. They call it, “noon ball.” To start, the players arrange into a single file line with the first person standing on the free-throw line. Each player shoots one shot. If you miss, you go to the back of the line to shoot again. If you make it, you’re on a team. The first five players to make their shot are on one team, and then the next person to make it starts a new team. The pattern continues until no more teams of five can be made. The first team to score 21 points, counting by two and three-point baskets, wins the game. Noon ball creates an amazing competitive atmosphere attracting many familiar faces each week. Noon ball helps create unlikely friendships because everyone is there to compete and have a good time playing the sport they love.
Steve Heil, 64, is a long-time member of the noon ball community. For Heil, basketball is a great form of cardio and an activity he’s been enjoying his whole life. “I look forward to noon ball every week. I try to make it every time,” he says. Heil says he prefers to play basketball with college kids because it makes him feel young. He loves the energy that college kids bring to the game, and he plans to play noon ball for as long as he can.
Steve Heil always arrives early so he can get shots up before the first game starts. Heil considers himself much more of a facilitator in the games than a shooter, but he still enjoys shooting around for fun. Heil only shoots in games when the defense leaves him wide open
For Steve Heil, there’s no better feeling than unlacing his basketball shoes after a successful noon ball session. However, Heil loves his Puma basketball shoes. “They might not be the coolest looking shoes, but man are they comfortable. And they have good grip too,” he says. After playing noon ball, Heil feels accomplished because he completed his physical activity for the day.
Steve Heil tries to stop the drive by the other team’s best player and defend his team’s lead near the end of a close game. He’s willing to hustle and put his body on the line to help his team win. Heil’s competitive spirit still shines bright.