Three middle school athletes are turning big dreams into real possibilities, all thanks to the Cooperative All-Stars Sports Camp Scholarship. With this scholarship, our students experience campus life, train with staff, improve skills, and make friends from across the state, all at no cost. These young basketball enthusiasts are stepping onto courts at two of the state’s largest college campuses. Union Power is proud to award scholarships to Caleb Ellerbe and River Bain, who will attend the Carolina Basketball School, and Ava Senter, who will attend the Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Camp.
The first time Caleb Ellerbe picked up a basketball, he was captivated. As a rising seventh-grader at West Stanly Middle, with five years of experience on the court, basketball has become more than an after-school hobby; it’s helped shape who he is. Through every practice and every game, Caleb has learned that basketball isn’t always about winning; it’s about putting forth your all and never giving up on yourself or your teammates.
River Bain brings a different perspective to basketball, acknowledging that every shot missed is a lesson learned. As a rising sixth-grader from Wesley Chapel Elementary, he sees every practice as a chance to grow and every game as an opportunity to flourish. River is looking forward to enhancing his skills, making new friends, and connecting with other players who enjoy the sport as much as he does.
For Ava Senter, basketball is more than a game; it has taught her valuable lessons about believing in herself and working hard to be a better player and leader. Whether Ava is on the court at Gray Stone Day School or competing with her local recreational team, Uwharrie Storm, each play helps strengthen her confidence and skills.
Congratulations to Caleb, River, and Ava! Thank you to all the students who applied this year. Applications for the 2027 Cooperative All-Stars Sports Camp Scholarships will reopen on Jan. 1, 2027.