One month into his second season of high school basketball, Mancos High School sophomore Hayden Kocourek felt pain in his ankles. A few days later, the junior varsity guard learned that his kidneys were failing.
"We knew that he wasn't feeling great and he didn't look like himself," said senior Brandon Hood-Farley. "When we found out that he was in the emergency room, it was an odd feeling."
Since learning of Kocourek's health issues, the boys' basketball team has rallied to provide support. Team members have sold T-shirts to raise money to help cover Kocourek's medical expenses and also provided encouraging words.
"This whole team and this community is just a big family," said senior guard Jayden Peacock. "Our team's slogan is 'Hold the rope,' and we're all holding the rope for Hayden."
"Hayden's situation has made us closer as a team, and it gives us a little more motivation on the court," added senior guard Nigel Henry. "It makes us play a little harder."
As for Kocourek's basketball future, the sophomore said will continue attending practices and games. The sophomore then added that he hopes to one day return to the court.
He also expressed appreciation for his teammates' support.
"The support has been pretty helpful," said Kocourek. "Coming to watch the team play and practice has helped me get back to normal life."
Green T-shirts with the slogan, "United" are being sold at Mancos High School for $15. Individuals wearing the T-shirts will get free admission to home basketball games on Jan. 27, Jan. 30 and Jan. 31.
Numerous Mancos High School students, as well as several members of the community have purchased T-shirts.
"I think it's a great thing to have everyone in this small town come together and really get to know who Hayden is," said junior post Andrew Plunkett. "It's a good thing that we can go anywhere in town, sell these shirts and have people willing to help a great teammate like (Hayden)."